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Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken is a dish that combines the irresistible crunch of crispy chicken with a vibrant, tangy sauce, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. This recipe offers the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and eye-catching presentation.

Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken

Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy chicken with a tangy, sweet sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. This recipe showcases juicy chicken thighs coated in a crunchy breading, all smothered in a glossy orange sauce enriched with soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. With detailed instructions and tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, you'll impress everyone at your table with this comforting meal. Explore the perfect pairings and customization options to make it your own!
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Ingredients
  

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup cornstarch

Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

Zest of 2 oranges

1 cup fresh orange juice

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon grated ginger

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on heat preference)

2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (slurry mix)

Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, generously season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

    Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare a three-bowl breading assembly line: fill one bowl with all-purpose flour, the second bowl with beaten eggs, and the third bowl with a combined mixture of panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch.

      Coat the Chicken: Take a piece of seasoned chicken, dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s coated; then roll it in the panko-cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. Repeat for all chicken pieces.

        Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes or until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

          Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the orange zest, fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.

            Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and turns sticky.

              Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the fried chicken and pour the sticky orange sauce over the top. Gently toss the chicken until every piece is well coated in the sauce.

                Serve: Transfer the Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken to a serving platter. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and slices of green onion on top. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4