Discover a delightful orange chicken recipe using orange marmalade for a sweet and tangy twist. Marinate chicken in a zesty blend of marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. Whip up a delectable sauce with marmalade, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes for that perfect kick. Sizzle the chicken in a skillet until golden brown and fully cooked. Get creative by adding pineapple or bell peppers for extra flavor. For the full experience, check out the Step-by-Step Instructions, Cooking Time Recommendations, and Calorie Breakdown. Enjoy the mouthwatering taste of this flavorful dish!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
Alternative ingredient options:
- For a spicy kick: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce
- For a sweeter taste: 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- For a twist, try using lemon or lime juice instead of orange marmalade
Remember to brown the chicken evenly for a crispy texture and avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken properly for a perfect coating.
Serve your homemade orange chicken with steamed rice or noodles for a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of 1/2 cup orange marmalade, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce by combining 1/4 cup orange marmalade, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken pieces until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the skillet for even cooking.
- For a flavor variation, consider adding pineapple chunks or bell peppers to the dish for a tropical twist.
- Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F by using a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Cooking Time Recommendations
For optimal results, cook the marinated chicken pieces on each side for approximately 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat until golden brown and fully cooked through. To ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy, a meat thermometer can be used to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This cooking time will also allow the orange marmalade glaze to caramelize and intensify its flavors.
To enhance the flavor profile of this dish, consider adding a touch of heat with red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor. For a refreshing twist, experiment with incorporating other citrus fruits like lemon or lime into the marinade.
If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to develop even further. Leftover orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the moisture.
For ingredient substitutions, you can use honey or maple syrup in place of orange marmalade for a different sweetening agent. Soy sauce can be swapped with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables like snow peas, carrots, or water chestnuts for added texture and color.
When serving, pair this orange chicken with steamed white rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Complement the dish with a side of stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with sliced green onions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts for an extra burst of freshness and crunch.
Calorie Breakdown
Consider analyzing the calorie breakdown of the orange chicken recipe to understand its nutritional content better. Knowing the nutritional values can help you make informed choices about your diet and ensure you're meeting your health goals.
In this recipe, the orange marmalade provides natural sweetness while offering health benefits such as vitamin C and antioxidants. However, it's essential to be mindful of the overall calorie content to maintain a balanced diet.
By examining the calorie breakdown, you can see how the different components contribute to the total energy content of the dish. For example, the chicken provides protein for muscle growth and repair, while the orange marmalade adds sugars and carbohydrates for energy. Understanding these proportions can help you adjust your portion sizes accordingly to fit your dietary needs.
Additionally, a serving of orange chicken typically contains around 350-400 calories, with the majority coming from carbohydrates and protein. This information can assist you in making informed choices about your calorie intake and overall nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Orange Marmalade With Another Fruit Preserve?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Explore common queries and possible concerns.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, consider using plant-based chicken, tofu, or seitan as alternatives. For a citrus substitution, try using lemon or grapefruit juice instead of marmalade. These adjustments can give your dish a unique twist while keeping it in line with vegan dietary preferences.
Can I Use Fresh Oranges Instead of Orange Marmalade?
Yes, you can use fresh oranges as a substitution option for orange marmalade in the recipe. Consider making a homemade marmalade from fresh oranges for a citrus alternative that will add a delightful twist to your dish.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Spicier Flavor?
To make your dish spicier, you can increase the amount of sriracha or chili flakes in the recipe. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences and gradually add more for a hotter flavor. These additions will elevate the spiciness of your orange chicken and add a fiery kick to each bite.
Can I Prepare the Orange Chicken in an Air Fryer Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can prepare the orange chicken in an air fryer instead of frying. The taste comparison between fried and air-fried versions may differ slightly, with the air-fried option typically being lighter and less greasy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this orange chicken recipe using orange marmalade is a delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors that will surely satisfy your taste buds.
With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up this flavorful dish in no time.
Enjoy the perfect balance of citrusy goodness and savory chicken with this tasty recipe.
Give it a try and impress your friends and family with this delightful meal!