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Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish combines the zesty sweetness of fresh oranges with the fiery kick of spices, creating a perfect harmony that has made it a favorite in Asian cuisine. The vibrant flavors not only make every bite exciting but also showcase the beauty of balancing sweet and spicy in cooking, a technique that is central to many beloved dishes around the world.

Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken

Discover the delightful flavors of Sweet and Spicy Orange Chicken, a perfect blend of zesty sweetness and spicy kick. This easy-to-follow recipe uses fresh chicken thighs for moisture, crispy cornstarch coating, and a vibrant sauce made with orange juice, honey, and soy sauce. Impress your family with a restaurant-quality meal right at home in under 30 minutes. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and make this dish your next culinary adventure!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cornstarch

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)

Zest of 1 orange

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

    - Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.

      Fry the Chicken:

        - In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches, cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

          Make the Sauce:

            - In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.

              - Pour in the fresh orange juice and zest, followed by honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.

                Combine Chicken and Sauce:

                  - Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Return the fried chicken to the skillet, coating it well in the sweet and spicy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

                    Serve:

                      - Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4