If you’re looking for a delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor without taking hours to prepare, look no further than Ground Orange Chicken! This dish is juicy, tangy, and rich in aroma, making it an instant favorite at family dinner tables. One of my fondest memories is the first time I tasted this vibrant dish; it was love at first bite! The harmonious blend of zesty orange and tender chicken can brighten even the dullest of days, making it a feel-good recipe that everyone can enjoy.
Ground Orange Chicken is special because it takes the classic flavors of a beloved takeout dish and makes them accessible for home cooks. The best part? It can be whipped up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. If you enjoy another family favorite like Sweet and Sour Chicken, you’ll definitely want to keep reading about this delightful dish. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the world of Ground Orange Chicken!
What is Ground Orange Chicken?
Take a moment to ponder: what could possibly make a humble chicken dish so alluring? “Ground Orange Chicken” sounds like a dish that has found a way to party in your mouth, doesn’t it? But fear not; it’s not as complicated as it may sound! Traditionally, orange chicken is a popular dish found in Chinese cuisine, and this ground version is a delightful twist that simplifies preparation and maximizes flavor.
The iconic name comes from the tangy orange sauce that envelops the chicken, bringing a zesty kick that makes anything else seem a little mundane. Remember, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me; this dish will do just that! So why not indulge in this flavorful creation? Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Orange Chicken
You’re going to love Ground Orange Chicken for three standout reasons! Firstly, the highlight of this dish is undoubtedly the flavor explosion. Featuring a zesty orange sauce that balances sweetness, acidity, and spice, it creates a dish that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Secondly, making your own Ground Orange Chicken at home is a fantastic way to save money compared to takeout. You’ll be shocked at how much more satisfying it feels to whip this up in your kitchen—you’ll save dollars and potentially gain a new family favorite.
Lastly, the toppings and ingredients elevate this dish to new heights! With elements like sesame seeds, green onions, and crushed red pepper flakes, you can customize it to suit your family’s taste preferences. If you enjoy another takeout favorite like General Tso’s Chicken, Ground Orange Chicken is practically its flavorful cousin: equally satisfying but offers a different twist. Ready to give it a try? Let’s get you started!
How to Make Ground Orange Chicken
Quick Overview
What makes Ground Orange Chicken so incredibly appealing is its simplicity and flavor! It only takes about 30 minutes to prepare this delightful dish, making it a quick and delicious option for any night of the week. The tender chicken absorbs the tangy orange sauce beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. So buckle up; you’re in for a treat!
Key Ingredients for Ground Orange Chicken
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and well cooked.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared orange sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Slowly add the cornstarch-water mixture while stirring constantly. This will thicken the sauce—cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it coats the chicken nicely.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and then serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
What to Serve Ground Orange Chicken With
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Ground Orange Chicken with aromatic jasmine rice or fluffy steamed rice. Both options soak up the delicious sauce beautifully! You can also serve it alongside crispy stir-fried veggies for a colorful and nutritious balance to the meal. If you want to elevate your dining experience, a refreshing cucumber salad or spring rolls make for perfect appetizers.
Top Tips for Perfecting Ground Orange Chicken
To ensure you achieve perfection with Ground Orange Chicken, here’s a nugget of wisdom: don’t overcook the chicken! Aim for that juicy texture, as it holds onto the sauce better. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or switching up the sweetener with brown sugar or agave syrup for a caramelized depth of flavor. Finally, to make meal prep easier, you can double the recipe and freeze half for a delicious future meal!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), Ground Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to three months. When you’re ready to revisit this delightful dish, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of orange juice to refresh the flavors and combat dryness.
That’s a wrap on your journey into the deliciousness of Ground Orange Chicken! Now it’s time for you to roll up your sleeves and create this scrumptious dish for yourself and your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Ground Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, hoisin (if using), chili flakes, and orange zest.
- In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Set both aside.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground chicken and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through (6–8 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onion. Cook 1 minute more.
- Add the sauce:
- Pour the orange sauce into the skillet and stir to coat the chicken.
- Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with green onion tops.
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce cups.
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