Orange Chicken Fried Rice

Orange Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion when you crave a comforting and satisfying feast. With its vibrant orange sauce, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, this dish tantalizes the taste buds while being incredibly simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The zesty orange sauce combined with savory ingredients creates an explosion of flavor that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste amazing and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools that will make your experience smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook everything evenly while giving you enough space to stir-fry.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts on your chicken and vegetables for even cooking.
• Mixing Bowls: These are essential for combining dry ingredients and whisking eggs without mess.

Ingredients

This is an easy one pan version of my family’s favorite takeout!

Protein and Seasonings

• 1 lb chicken breast
• Salt (pepper, garlic powder)

Coatings

• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp each of salt (pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder)

Cooking Fats

• 2 tbsp butter
• Sesame oil (or any oil)

Add-Ins

• 4 strips of turkey turkey turkey bacon
• 2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
• 12 oz frozen mixed vegetables
• Low Sodium Soy sauce

Finishing Touches

• 4 eggs
• Chopped green onions
• Orange Sauce (Store Bought)

How to Make Orange Chicken Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking 2 cups of uncooked rice according to package directions. Once done, let it cool and store in a container in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut one pound of chicken into small cubes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Toss the seasoned chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a plate.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from pan.

Step 6: Sauté Turkey Turkey turkey bacon

Add chopped turkey turkey turkey bacon to the hot skillet. Stir until cooked through and crispy.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add the pre-cooked rice and frozen mixed vegetables into the skillet. Drizzle additional oil as necessary—about 2-3 tablespoons—to help everything blend together smoothly.

Step 8: Season the Mixture

Stir well; season with more salt, pepper, garlic powder, then pour in low sodium soy sauce starting with about 2 tablespoons.

Step 9: Add Eggs

Create a well in the center of the rice mixture; crack in four whisked eggs. Stir until cooked through before mixing them into the rice thoroughly.

Step 10: Finish Cooking

Continue stirring occasionally until everything is combined thoroughly. If desired for extra crispiness, divide between two skillets or use a large wok.

Step 11: Taste Test

Taste your fried rice; adjust seasoning with salt or soy sauce if necessary.

Step 12: Add Orange Sauce

Toss cooked chicken pieces in orange sauce before pouring them over the top of your fried rice mixture.

Step 13: Garnish & Serve

Top with chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor before serving hot! Enjoy this delightful Orange Chicken Fried Rice!

How to Serve Orange Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Orange Chicken Fried Rice can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its flavors and presentation.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro – Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
• Basil – Add Thai basil for an aromatic twist that complements the orange sauce.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Chopped Peanuts – Add a handful of chopped peanuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.
• Sesame Seeds – Toasted sesame seeds can provide a delightful texture and nutty flavor.

Garnish with Citrus

• Orange Slices – Serve with fresh orange slices on the side to brighten up the plate.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the dish.

Pair with Simple Salads

• Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad can offer a crisp contrast to the warm rice.
• Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing complements the fried rice perfectly.

How to Perfect Orange Chicken Fried Rice

Perfecting your Orange Chicken Fried Rice is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to make your dish shine.

• Bold seasoning – Ensure each component is well-seasoned at every stage, from chicken to rice.
• Use day-old rice – Day-old rice has less moisture, giving you that desired fried rice texture.
• High heat cooking – Cooking over medium-high heat helps achieve that crispy texture quickly without steaming the rice.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – If necessary, cook in batches to ensure everything gets enough heat for even cooking.
• Experiment with veggies – Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand for variety.
• Drizzle more sauce at serving – Adding extra orange sauce just before serving enhances flavor and gives a glossy finish.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken Fried Rice

Pairing side dishes with Orange Chicken Fried Rice can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while complementing the main dish.
2. Egg Drop Soup – A warm bowl of egg drop soup brings comforting flavors that match well with fried rice.
3. Spring Rolls – Crispy vegetable spring rolls provide a crunchy contrast and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
4. Miso Soup – This savory soup adds umami flavors that enhance the overall meal experience.
5. Stir-Fried Bok Choy – Quick stir-fried bok choy offers freshness and crispness alongside your fried rice.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich flavors of fried rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Orange Chicken Fried Rice can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked just until it’s golden brown to maintain its juiciness. Use a meat thermometer if needed.
• Using cold rice: Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer can lead to bland fried rice. Season during cooking and adjust as needed.
• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding can prevent proper frying. Cook in batches or use a large enough skillet or wok.
• Skipping the sauce: The orange sauce is key for flavor. Don’t forget to coat the chicken thoroughly before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before sealing it to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Orange Chicken Fried Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for quick reheating later.

Reheating Orange Chicken Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Chicken Fried Rice?

Orange Chicken Fried Rice is a delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken tossed with fried rice and flavored with tangy orange sauce.

How long does it take to make Orange Chicken Fried Rice?

The total time for making Orange Chicken Fried Rice is about 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking.

Can I customize Orange Chicken Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli and adjust the sauce to your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Orange Chicken Fried Rice stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion

Orange Chicken Fried Rice is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. This versatile dish allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Give it a try and enjoy your own delicious takeout-style meal at home!

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