introduction
Baked Orange Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table. This recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic Chinese takeout favorite, using simple ingredients to create a tasty meal that the whole family will enjoy.
why make this recipe
Choosing to make Baked Orange Chicken at home is a great way to enjoy a popular dish without excess calories or unhealthy oils. You can control the ingredients for a fresher taste and cater to your own preferences. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
how to make Baked Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the orange chicken sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then coat them with cornstarch.
- Dip the chicken into the sauce mixture until well coated.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
how to serve Baked Orange Chicken
Serve Baked Orange Chicken hot, right out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for added color and nutrition.
how to store Baked Orange Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you’re meal prepping, keep the chicken and sauce separate until you are ready to enjoy it for the best texture.
tips to make Baked Orange Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture for about 30 minutes before coating with cornstarch.
- Make sure to spread the chicken pieces out on the baking sheet to ensure they get crispy.
- Adjust the amount of sauce based on your taste. Add more for a saucier dish or less if you prefer it lighter.
variation
You can easily switch this recipe up by using different proteins, such as tofu or shrimp, for a different take on the dish. You may also experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, which can roast alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
2. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and check the label on the orange sauce to ensure it is gluten-free if you need this recipe to be gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mix in advance, coat the chicken and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re starting from a cold temperature.
Baked Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup Panda Express Orange Chicken Copycat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the orange chicken sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then coat them with cornstarch.
- Dip the chicken into the sauce mixture until well coated.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.