Chili chicken in Orange Sauce Recipe Introduction
Get ready to embark on a flavorful culinary journey with our Tangy Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce recipe. This delightful dish combines the heat of chili chicken with the citrusy tang of orange sauce, creating a mouthwatering fusion that will leave your taste buds tingling with joy. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply craving something exotic, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the tantalizing world of flavors!
Chili chicken in Orange Sauce Recipe Ingredients:
For the Chili Chicken:
- 500g boneless chicken, diced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Marinate the chicken with soy sauce, chili sauce, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry marinated chicken until it turns golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté bell peppers and onions until they become tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, honey, vinegar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Pour the orange sauce into the pan with sautéed vegetables. Cook until it thickens.
- Add the cooked chicken to the orange sauce and toss until it’s well coated.
How to Prepare: Prepare this delicious Tangy Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce by marinating chicken, stir-frying it to perfection, and then creating the tantalizing orange sauce. Combine the two for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Preparation Time: Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: This recipe serves 4 hungry souls.
FAQs: Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can, but boneless chicken cooks faster and is easier to serve.
Q2: Is the orange sauce very sweet?
A2: The sauce has a balanced sweet-tangy flavor, but you can adjust the honey to your taste.
Q3: Can I use frozen bell peppers and orange juice?
A3: Fresh ingredients are recommended for the best flavor, but frozen can be used in a pinch.
Q4: Is this dish spicy?
A4: It has a mild to moderate spice level, but you can adjust the chili sauce for more or less heat.
Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A5: While it’s best fresh, you can prepare components in advance and combine them before serving.
Chili chicken in Orange Sauce Recipe Overview:
Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce is a delightful culinary creation that marries the bold flavors of spicy chicken with the zesty tang of orange sauce. This fusion dish is a perfect harmony of contrasting tastes and textures, making it an irresistible treat for your taste buds.
In this recipe, tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, chili sauce, ginger-garlic paste, and more. They are then stir-fried to golden perfection, creating a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining succulent on the inside.
The star of the show is the vibrant orange sauce, prepared with fresh orange juice, zest, honey, and a touch of vinegar. This sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, elevating the dish to a whole new level of culinary excellence.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or crave something with a citrusy twist, Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce is sure to captivate your palate. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a flavorful main course, and it’s bound to be a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings.
So, prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more. Let the fusion of flavors and the aromatic aroma of this dish take center stage at your dining table, creating a memorable and delightful dining experience for all.
Chili chicken in Orange SauceRecipe Recipe Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Begin by taking the diced boneless chicken in a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for approximately 20 minutes. This step allows the flavors to infuse and tenderizes the chicken.
- Stir-Fry the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Stir-fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and cooks through. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion. Sauté them for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized. Keep the vegetables colorful and slightly crisp for the perfect texture.
- Create the Orange Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of fresh orange juice, the zest of 1 orange, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the prepared orange sauce into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens. This should take around 2-3 minutes. The sauce will develop a glossy texture and coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened orange sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce is now ready to be served. Plate it up with your choice of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or orange zest for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the delightful combination of spicy chicken and tangy orange sauce!
Now, savor each bite of this exquisite dish, relishing the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Chili chicken in Orange Sauce Recipe Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless alternative, replace the chicken with tofu or paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Press and cube the tofu or paneer, marinate, and follow the same cooking steps. You’ll have a delectable Vegetarian Chili Orange dish.
- Extra Spice: If you’re a spice enthusiast, kick up the heat by adding chopped red chili peppers or extra chili sauce to the marinade. Be cautious, though, as it can get quite fiery!
- Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture and flavor by sprinkling toasted cashews, almonds, or peanuts over the finished dish just before serving. The nutty crunch adds a delightful contrast to the dish.
- Sesame Twist: Incorporate a nutty, roasted sesame flavor by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top of your Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce. This adds a subtle but satisfying nuttiness to the dish.
- Citrus Blend: Experiment with different citrus fruits for the sauce. Try using a combination of oranges, tangerines, or even a splash of lemon juice to create a unique citrus blend that elevates the sauce’s zesty notes.
- Healthier Option: For a lighter version, consider using skinless chicken breast and reducing the amount of oil in the recipe. You can also substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
- Vegan Delight: To make this dish vegan, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use a vegan-friendly alternative for the soy sauce, such as tamari or coconut aminos.
- Fruit Fusion: Experiment with other fruits like pineapple or mango for an exciting fruity twist. Adding small pineapple chunks or diced mango to the dish can create a tropical flavor explosion.
- Herbal Infusion: Infuse additional flavor by adding fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, or mint as a garnish. These herbs provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Rice or Noodle Bowls: Instead of serving Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce as a standalone dish, transform it into rice or noodle bowls. Cook your choice of rice or noodles and ladle the chicken and sauce over them. Top with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a satisfying meal.
Feel free to explore these variations to cater to your taste preferences and create your own signature twist on this already delightful dish. The possibilities are endless, and each variation promises a unique and delicious dining experience.
Chili chicken in Orange Sauce Recipe Presentation and Serving Suggestions:
When it comes to presenting and serving your Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce, a thoughtful and appealing arrangement can elevate the dining experience. Here are some presentation and serving suggestions to make your meal memorable:
- Classic Plating: Start by placing a generous portion of the Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce at the center of a clean, white dinner plate. Arrange the colorful sautéed bell peppers and onions artfully around the chicken for an attractive contrast.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro, basil, or mint on top of the dish. These vibrant greens not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing aroma and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Grate a bit of fresh orange zest over the chicken to enhance the citrusy aroma and provide a visual hint of the orange sauce’s presence.
- Nutty Texture: If you opted for the nutty variation, scatter some toasted cashews, almonds, or peanuts on top for an appealing crunch.
- Sesame Seeds: For a touch of sophistication, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish. The seeds’ delicate crunch and nutty flavor complement the sauce perfectly.
- Side of Steamed Rice or Noodles: Serve your Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce with a side of steamed jasmine rice or Chinese egg noodles. These accompaniments absorb the flavorful sauce and complete the meal.
- Colorful Vegetables: Consider adding a side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn for a balanced and visually pleasing plate.
- Chopsticks or Fork and Knife: Depending on your guests’ preferences and dining experience, provide both chopsticks and utensils. The dish can be enjoyed either way.
- Serving Platter for Sharing: If you’re serving a family-style meal, transfer the dish to a large serving platter and garnish it elegantly before placing it on the dining table. This encourages sharing and adds a touch of sophistication.
- Individual Bowls for Guests: For a more intimate dining experience, serve Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce in individual bowls. Each guest can enjoy their own portion without the need for passing plates.
Remember, the art of presentation not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates anticipation for the flavors that await. By incorporating these suggestions, you’ll transform your meal into a feast for the senses, making your Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce an unforgettable culinary masterpiece. Enjoy your delightful dining experience!
Chili chicken in Orange Sauce Recipe Nutritional Information:
Nutritional Information:
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving of Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce. Please note that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Per Serving (4 servings):
- Calories: 340 calories
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 920mg
- Potassium: 420mg
- Vitamin C: 120mg (200% DV)
- Calcium: 40mg (4% DV)
- Iron: 2.5mg (14% DV)
Nutritional Tips:
- This dish is a good source of protein, making it a satisfying main course option.
- It provides a significant amount of vitamin C, contributing to your daily requirement for immune support.
- Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you have dietary restrictions. You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce and adjusting salt levels.
- The carbohydrates come primarily from the orange sauce’s sugars. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider reducing the amount of honey used in the sauce.
Remember that these values are approximate and can vary depending on factors like ingredient brands and portion sizes. It’s essential to adapt the recipe to meet your specific dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy your Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce while keeping an eye on your nutritional goals!
In conclusion, our Tangy Chili Chicken in Orange Sauce is a delightful culinary masterpiece that effortlessly blends the boldness of chili chicken with the zesty allure of orange sauce. This recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dining experience, impress guests, or simply treat yourself to a burst of unique flavors. With easy-to-follow instructions and a harmonious fusion of tastes, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again. So, roll up your sleeves and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds like never before. Don’t miss out on the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy – give it a try and savor every bite!
