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Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens, often evoking memories of family gatherings, warmth, and satisfaction. It transcends borders, with each culture offering its own interpretation that resonates deeply with those who partake in it. Among the myriad of comforting dishes available, crispy and flavorful meals have a unique allure, capturing the essence of indulgence with each bite. One such dish that perfectly embodies this concept is "Crispy Citrus Delight: Orange Chicken."

Orange Chicken

Discover the mouthwatering recipe for Crispy Citrus Delight: Orange Chicken and elevate your dinner game! This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken thighs coated in a light, crispy crust, paired with a sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Click through to unleash the flavors of this comforting classic and learn how to prepare a homemade version that rivals your favorite takeout!

Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cornstarch

2 large eggs, beaten

½ cup all-purpose flour

¾ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

Zest of 1 orange

3 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon grated ginger

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness)

½ cup green onions, chopped

Oil for frying

Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with cornstarch, another with beaten eggs, and the last with a mixture of flour and a pinch of salt.

    Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the cornstarch, shaking off excess, then into the egg wash, and finally dredging it in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well coated.

      Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

        Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

          Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken pieces into the saucepan. Toss to coat the chicken in the citrus sauce thoroughly.

            Final Touches: Cook for an additional minute or two to warm everything through. Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor.

              Serve: Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and extra green onions for a pop of color.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4