Fried Chicken with Orange Sauce: A Delightful Recipe

Fried chicken is a beloved dish that evokes comfort and nostalgia for many. Its crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat make it a favorite at family gatherings, picnics, and casual weeknight dinners. However, what sets this recipe apart is the addition of a delightful orange sauce that infuses the chicken with a vibrant citrus flavor, elevating the traditional fried chicken experience to new heights.

In this article, we will walk you through the steps to create perfectly fried chicken paired with a luscious orange sauce. Not only will we cover the cooking techniques, but we will also discuss the importance of each ingredient and share tips for achieving the best results. So, let’s get started on this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

To prepare fried chicken with orange sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Fried Chicken:

• Chicken Pieces: 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs) of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
• Buttermilk: 2 cups (for marinating)
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups
• Cornstarch: 1 cup
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 2 teaspoons
• Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Vegetable Oil: for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• Fresh Orange Juice: 1 cup (from about 3-4 oranges)
• Zest of 1 Orange: for added flavor
• Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
• Honey: 3 tablespoons
• Cornstarch: 2 teaspoons (for thickening)
• Water: 2 tablespoons (for cornstarch mixture)
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh Chopped Cilantro: for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

The first step in achieving juicy and flavorful fried chicken is marinating it in buttermilk. The acidity in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while adding richness.

1. In a large bowl, add the chicken pieces and cover them with buttermilk. Ensure all pieces are well coated.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the coating.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
2. Set up a dredging station with the seasoned flour mixture, allowing for an efficient coating process.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to dredge it in the flour mixture.

1. Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
2. Coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.
3. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on a wire rack. Let it rest for about 15 minutes; this helps the coating to stick better during frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Now it’s time for the exciting part – frying the chicken!

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
2. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
3. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Sauce

While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the orange sauce.

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil (if using). Stir well to combine.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
3. Bring the orange sauce mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Now that both the fried chicken and orange sauce are ready, it’s time to serve!

1. Place the fried chicken on a large serving platter.
2. Drizzle the orange sauce generously over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated in that delightful citrus goodness.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on pieces provide the best flavor and texture. Thighs and drumsticks are particularly juicy and tender.
2. Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the correct temperature. If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken cooks through. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
3. Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and results in juicier meat.
4. Make It Ahead: The fried chicken can be made ahead of time and kept warm in a low oven until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Fried chicken with orange sauce is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of traditional fried chicken with the refreshing brightness of citrus. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you're in the mood for something special. The steps outlined in this guide will help you create a meal that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy the process of cooking, and relish the flavorful results that will surely impress your family and friends!

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a plate of crispy, flavorful fried chicken with a zesty orange twist!