Orange and Ginger Chicken

Orange and Ginger Chicken Recipe - Flavorful and Unique

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 4 hours on low, 10-15 minutes on high | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Orange and Ginger Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the zesty taste of oranges with the warm spice of ginger. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The combination of orange and ginger in cooking has been used for centuries in Asian cuisine. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Chinese and Thai dishes that use these ingredients to create a unique and tasty flavor profile.

Ingredients

2-3 lb (1.36 kg) chicken pieces
8 oz (227 g) can water chestnuts, drained
0.5 cup orange juice
1 tsp grated orange peel
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp grated ginger
1 clove garlic, crushed
3 tbsp cornstarch
3 tbsp cold water

How to prepare

Place the chicken in a crock pot.
Top it with water chestnuts.
Combine orange juice, orange peel, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours or until the chicken is tender.
Remove the chicken and chestnuts from the crock pot and keep them warm.
Dissolve cornstarch in water.
Stir the cornstarch mixture into the juices in the crock pot.
Cover and cook on HIGH, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve it with rice.

Variations

For a spicier version, add in some red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce.
You can also substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken in the orange and ginger mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- For a crispy skin on the chicken, you can broil it in the oven for a few minutes after it has finished cooking in the crock pot.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Orange and Ginger Chicken pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a crock pot to slowly cook the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can also cook this dish on the stovetop or in the oven if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger as a substitute. You can also use orange juice concentrate instead of fresh orange juice.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the orange and ginger mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Orange and Ginger Chicken with fresh orange slices and chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Orange and Ginger Chicken pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Riesling or a light lager beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Orange and Ginger Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Orange and Ginger Chicken contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Orange and Ginger Chicken contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Orange and Ginger Chicken contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange and Ginger Chicken is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and cornstarch, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Orange and Ginger Chicken is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Orange and Ginger Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a beautiful summer day, with the sun shining brightly and a gentle breeze blowing through the kitchen window. I had just returned from a trip to the local farmer's market, where I had picked up some fresh oranges and ginger. As I unpacked my bags, the sweet aroma of the oranges filled the air, and I knew I wanted to create something special with them.

I rummaged through my collection of cookbooks, searching for inspiration. It was then that I came across a well-worn recipe card tucked between the pages of an old cookbook. The card was stained and faded, a testament to the many times it had been used. As I read through the recipe for Orange and Ginger Chicken, I knew this was the dish I wanted to make.

The recipe was simple yet intriguing. It called for tender pieces of chicken marinated in a fragrant mixture of orange juice, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, then sautéed until golden brown and caramelized. The combination of sweet citrus and spicy ginger seemed like the perfect pairing, and I couldn't wait to get started.

I set to work, peeling and grating the fresh ginger, squeezing the juice from the ripe oranges, and mincing the garlic. The fragrant aromas filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I marinated the chicken pieces in the citrusy mixture, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and infuse it with their delicious essence.

As the chicken cooked in the skillet, I watched as the orange and ginger caramelized, creating a sticky, sweet glaze that coated the tender meat. The aroma was intoxicating, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that made my stomach growl with hunger.

Finally, the dish was ready, and I plated the Orange and Ginger Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish. I took a bite, savoring the tender meat and the burst of flavor from the citrus and ginger. It was a revelation, a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, savory and tangy.

I knew then that this recipe would become a favorite in my repertoire, a dish to be shared and enjoyed with loved ones. I couldn't wait to pass it on to my children and grandchildren, knowing that it would bring joy and satisfaction to all who tasted it.

And so, the recipe for Orange and Ginger Chicken became a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of that happy summer day when I discovered its delicious flavors. It holds a special place in my heart, a testament to the joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing good food with those we love. I hope that you will enjoy it as much as I do, and that it will bring happiness and warmth to your home as it has to mine. Bon appétit!