Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken: Delicious Recipe and Cooking Tips

Sesame ginger orange chicken: just the name conjures up images of glistening, perfectly glazed chicken, doesn’t it? Forget takeout tonight because I’m about to share a recipe that will blow your socks off! This isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes that will leave you craving more.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from the rich culinary traditions of Asian cuisine, where the balance of flavors is paramount. While the exact origins of orange chicken are debated, its popularity in Chinese-American restaurants is undeniable. It’s a dish that has evolved over time, adapting to local tastes and preferences, but always retaining its core appeal: a delightful combination of crispy chicken and a vibrant, citrusy sauce.

What makes sesame ginger orange chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures – the satisfying crunch of the chicken contrasting beautifully with the smooth, tangy sauce. The sesame seeds add a nutty depth, while the ginger provides a warm, aromatic kick. And let’s not forget the convenience! This recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without the hefty price tag or the wait. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful and satisfying dish!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Sesame Ginger Orange Sauce:
• 1/2 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed is best!
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• For Garnish:
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Orange slices (optional)
• Serving Suggestions:
• Cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa
• Steamed broccoli or other vegetables

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a light and crispy coating for our chicken. Make sure everything is well combined so that each piece of chicken gets an even coating.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Ensure each piece is well covered with the flour mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy texture when frying. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there and really work the mixture into the chicken.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until it’s light and frothy. This egg wash will help the flour mixture adhere to the chicken even better.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the excess egg drip off before moving on to the next step. This prevents the flour mixture from becoming too soggy.
5. Return the chicken to the bowl with the flour mixture and toss again to ensure a second, even coating. This double coating is the secret to extra crispy chicken!

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a small piece of chicken is dropped in. Be careful not to overheat the oil, as it can burn the chicken before it’s cooked through.
2. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
3. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked safely.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help maintain the crispiness of the chicken.

Making the Sesame Ginger Orange Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. These ingredients form the base of our flavorful sauce.
2. Add the grated fresh ginger and minced garlic to the saucepan. The ginger and garlic will infuse the sauce with their aromatic flavors.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This slurry will help thicken the sauce.
4. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan and whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
6. Continue to simmer the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. The sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
7. Stir in the orange zest and red pepper flakes (if using). The orange zest will add a bright citrusy note, while the red pepper flakes will provide a touch of heat.

Combining and Serving:

1. Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the sesame ginger orange sauce.
2. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece is nicely glazed.
3. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to further adhere to the chicken.
4. Remove the chicken from the heat and transfer it to a serving platter.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. The sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and visual appeal, while the green onions provide a fresh, vibrant touch.
6. Serve immediately over cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Steamed broccoli or other vegetables make a great side dish.
7. Optional: Garnish with orange slices for an extra burst of citrus flavor and visual appeal.

Tips for the Best Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated ginger will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
• Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey, soy sauce, or red pepper flakes to suit your personal preferences.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before adding the chicken.
• Crispy Chicken Secret: The double coating of cornstarch and flour is key to achieving extra crispy chicken. Don’t skip this step!
• Spice Level: If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

Variations:

• Sesame Chicken: Omit the orange juice and zest for a more traditional sesame chicken flavor.
• Ginger Chicken: Increase the amount of ginger in the sauce for a stronger ginger flavor.
• Lemon Chicken: Substitute lemon juice for orange juice for a tangy lemon chicken.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of steamed rice or quinoa.
• Add a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or other vegetables.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Serve with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover sesame ginger orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken recipe is truly a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests with a flavorful and surprisingly easy dish. I know, I know, there are a million chicken recipes out there, but trust me on this one. The combination of the bright, citrusy orange, the warm, nutty sesame, and the zesty ginger creates a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. It’s sweet, savory, and just a little bit tangy – the perfect balance! But why is it a must-try, you ask? Beyond the incredible flavor profile, this recipe is also incredibly versatile. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight, yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters will find something to love about this dish. The chicken is tender and juicy, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the presentation is simply stunning. Now, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations. I personally love serving this Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. The rice soaks up all that delicious sauce, making every bite a little piece of heaven. But you could also serve it with quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. For a complete meal, add some steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Want to add a little heat? Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. Prefer a thicker sauce? Whisk together a little cornstarch and water and add it to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. You could even add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. Another great variation is to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are naturally more flavorful and stay incredibly moist during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You could also try using this sauce with other proteins, such as tofu or shrimp. The possibilities are endless! I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients – most of them are pantry staples. And the cooking process is surprisingly simple. Just follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious and satisfying meal. Once you’ve made this Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love connecting with fellow food lovers. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. This recipe is a guaranteed winner, and I can’t wait to hear what you think. Happy cooking! And remember, the best meals are made with love and shared with those you care about. Enjoy!

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