Tray Of Orange Chicken

The quintessential American-Chinese dish! As a columnist, I'm delighted to enlighten you about the beloved "Tray of Orange Chicken" that's a staple in many Chinese-American restaurants across the United States.

What is Orange Chicken?

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Orange Chicken, also known as "chicken luo han guo," is a popular Chinese-American dish that originated in the 1980s. It is a sweet and savory stir-fry made with bite-sized pieces of chicken, typically breaded and deep-fried, and then tossed in a spicy orange-flavored sauce.

The Sauce: The Unsung Hero

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The sauce is the star of the show in Orange Chicken. It's a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy concoction typically made with a combination of ingredients like:

1. Orange marmalade or orange juice: Provides the distinct citrus flavor.

2. Soy sauce or hoisin sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor.

3. Brown sugar or honey: Contributes to the sauce's sweetness.

4. Rice vinegar or white vinegar: Balances the sweetness and adds a touch of sourness.

5. Cornstarch or flour: Thickeners help the sauce coat the chicken evenly.

6. Spices: Ginger, garlic, and chili peppers or red pepper flakes add warmth and heat.

7. Sesame oil or vegetable oil: Finishes the sauce with a subtle nutty or neutral flavor.

How it's Made:

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To create the iconic Orange Chicken, cooks typically follow these steps:

1. Breading and frying: Chicken pieces (usually boneless, skinless breast or thigh) are coated in a mixture of cornstarch, eggs, and spices, then deep-fried until crispy.

2. Sauteing: Fried chicken is removed from the oil and set aside. Scallions and sometimes mushrooms or bell peppers are sautéed in oil until tender.

3. Sauce preparation: Key ingredients are combined and whisked into a smooth sauce. The sauce is then cooked until it thickens slightly.

4. Assembly: Fried chicken is tossed with the prepared sauce to coat evenly.

5. Garnish: Fresh scallions, sesame seeds, or toasted almonds may be added as a finishing touch to the dish.

Variations and Regional Twists:

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While Orange Chicken is a staple in Chinese-American restaurants, variations and regional twists occur:

In conclusion, Orange Chicken has become an integral part of American-Chinese cuisine. Its unique sweet, savory, and spicy flavor profile has made it a crowd-pleaser in restaurants across the United States. Whether you're a fan of this beloved dish or curious about its origins, this column has hopefully given you a deeper appreciation for this iconic American-Chinese culinary treasure.