Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with Orange Marmalade: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite
If you’re craving a quick and satisfying meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavor, this Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with Orange Marmalade is exactly what you need. Inspired by the rich tradition of Asian-inspired American comfort food, this recipe takes the beloved orange chicken to the next level with the sweet and tangy depth of orange marmalade. Whether you’re a busy home cook or an adventurous food lover, this recipe guarantees a tasty dish in no time.
Ingredients: Simple Yet Flavorful
To prepare this easy orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade, gather these simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry:
Chicken Breast – 4 boneless, skinless breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Flour – 1 cup, for dredging
Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons, for crispiness
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Eggs – 2, beaten for the batter
Vegetable Oil – 1/2 cup, for frying
Orange Marmalade – 1/2 cup (the star of this recipe)
Soy Sauce – 1 tablespoon
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, fresh and minced
Rice Vinegar – 1 tablespoon for that tangy finish
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a slight kick
Sesame Seeds – 1 teaspoon, for garnish (optional)
Instructions: How to Make Easy Orange Chicken with Orange Marmalade
Prep the Chicken:
Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Prepare the Batter:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, followed by the flour mixture, coating each piece thoroughly.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Prepare the Orange Sauce:
In the same skillet, discard any excess oil, leaving just a small amount. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the marmalade melts and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the crispy chicken to the skillet with the orange sauce. Toss gently to coat the chicken in the flavorful sauce.
Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side.
Why This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with Orange Marmalade is a Must-Try
This easy orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, with a crisp texture that makes every bite a delight. The orange marmalade adds an extra layer of sweetness and complexity, elevating this dish beyond the typical Chinese takeout. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy nights when you want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time.
Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken Every Time
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Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with Orange Marmalade
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-American fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with Orange Marmalade brings together crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet orange sauce that’s quick and easy to prepare. With the rich flavor of orange marmalade, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal that feels like a restaurant favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken Breast – 4 boneless, skinless breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Flour – 1 cup, for dredging
Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons, for crispiness
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Eggs – 2, beaten
Vegetable Oil – 1/2 cup, for frying
Orange Marmalade – 1/2 cup
Soy Sauce – 1 tablespoon
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, fresh and minced
Rice Vinegar – 1 tablespoon
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for heat
Sesame Seeds – 1 teaspoon, for garnish
Green Onions – Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture and then coat it with the flour mixture.Fry the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger and cook for about 30 seconds. Stir in the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if desired. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Add the crispy chicken back into the skillet and toss until well-coated with the sauce.Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite side.
Notes
Double the Crispiness: For extra crunch, double coat the chicken with the egg and flour mixture.
Vegetable Add-ins: You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra texture and flavor.
Spicy Option: If you like spice, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Easy Orange Chicken, Orange Marmalade Chicken, Orange Chicken Recipe, Crispy Orange Chicken
Double Coat the Chicken: For an extra crispy texture, consider double coating the chicken pieces before frying. This adds even more crunch, giving your dish that signature texture.
Use Fresh Ingredients: While the orange marmalade is the star, using fresh garlic and ginger will give your sauce a more vibrant, authentic flavor.
Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the dish. They’ll complement the sweet sauce and make it more filling.
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Orange Chicken with Orange Marmalade
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make the dish even juicier and flavorful. Just be sure to cook them through before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can fry the chicken and store it separately from the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and toss it in the sauce.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Final Thoughts: Why This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe with Orange Marmalade Is Perfect for Any Meal
If you’re looking for a sweet and savory dish that’s sure to impress, this easy orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade is exactly what you need. Quick, simple, and full of flavor, it’s a meal that can be enjoyed by anyone in the family. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe makes it easy to bring a restaurant-quality dish to your dinner table.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a homemade version of your favorite takeout!