Szechwan Orange Chicken

Szechwan Orange Chicken Recipe - Bold and Spicy Asian Cuisine

Region / culture: Asia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Szechwan Orange Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the tangy taste of orange with the spicy kick of Asian chile paste. This dish is perfect for those who love a combination of sweet and spicy flavors in their meals.

History

Szechwan Orange Chicken is a popular dish that originated in the Szechwan province of China. It is a fusion of traditional Chinese cooking techniques with modern flavors, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts around the world.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of thawed frozen orange juice
0.25 cup of rice wine vinegar
2 tbsp of canola oil
2 tbsp of soy sauce
1 tbsp of Asian chile paste
zest from 1 orange
6 skinless chicken thighs
orange sections
Sliced scallions

How to prepare

In a bowl, whisk together the first 6 ingredients.
Place the mixture in a plastic bag.
Add the chicken, seal the bag, and shake to coat the chicken.
Refrigerate the chicken for 2 hours.
Heat the outdoor grill.
Coat the grill rack with oil.
Remove the chicken from the bag, but reserve the marinade.
Grill the chicken for 20 minutes, covered, turning and basting with the marinade every 5 minutes until the chicken is done.
In a saucepan, boil the remaining marinade for 1 minute.
Drizzle the boiled marinade over the chicken and serve.
Garnish with orange sections and sliced scallions.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for added texture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of Asian chile paste to suit your spice preference.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Baste the chicken with the marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and dry.

- Garnish the dish with fresh orange sections and sliced scallions for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Szechwan Orange Chicken can be served with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred cooking technique for Szechwan Orange Chicken, as it adds a smoky flavor to the dish. However, you can also bake or stir-fry the chicken if grilling is not an option.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute rice wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.

- Use orange zest instead of orange juice for a more intense citrus flavor.

- Replace canola oil with vegetable oil or sesame oil for a different taste profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop even more and makes meal prep easier.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Szechwan Orange Chicken on a bed of steamed rice with a garnish of fresh orange slices and chopped scallions. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for added crunch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Szechwan Orange Chicken with a light and refreshing salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad, to balance out the flavors. A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Szechwan Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Szechwan Orange Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Szechwan Orange Chicken contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Szechwan Orange Chicken contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Szechwan Orange Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Szechwan Orange Chicken is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and may contain traces of gluten.

Summary

Szechwan Orange Chicken is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a healthy option for a delicious meal.

Summary

Szechwan Orange Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the zesty taste of orange with the spicy kick of Asian chile paste. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, this dish is a healthy and delicious option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Enjoy the bold flavors of Szechwan Orange Chicken with your family and friends today!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Szechwan Orange Chicken. It was many years ago, during a trip to China with my husband. We were exploring the busy streets of Beijing, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. As we wandered through the bustling markets, we stumbled upon a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant that was filled with the delicious aroma of spices and cooking food.

Curious, we decided to step inside and see what was on offer. The menu was written in Chinese characters, but luckily the owner, a kind elderly woman, spoke a bit of English. She recommended that we try their signature dish - Szechwan Orange Chicken. Intrigued by the sound of this exotic dish, we eagerly placed our order.

When the dish arrived at our table, I was immediately struck by the vibrant colors and enticing aroma. The chicken was crispy and golden, coated in a sticky, sweet and tangy orange sauce that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. Each bite was a symphony of flavors - spicy and savory, with a hint of citrusy sweetness.

I was determined to learn how to make this dish myself, so I asked the owner if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my surprise, she agreed, and invited me into her kitchen to watch as she prepared the dish. As she cooked, she explained each step to me, from marinating the chicken in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, to creating the perfect sticky orange sauce with fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and a touch of chili paste.

I watched in awe as she worked her culinary magic, effortlessly combining flavors and textures to create a dish that was truly unforgettable. When the dish was finally ready, she served it to me with a smile, and I knew that I had found a recipe that would become a staple in my own kitchen.

After returning home from our trip, I wasted no time in recreating the Szechwan Orange Chicken recipe in my own kitchen. I gathered the necessary ingredients - chicken thighs, oranges, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili paste - and set to work marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce.

As the dish cooked, the familiar aroma of the spices filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that tiny restaurant in Beijing. When it was finally ready, I plated the chicken and took my first bite. The flavors were just as I remembered - bold, spicy, and deliciously sweet.

From that moment on, Szechwan Orange Chicken became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who were equally impressed by the complex flavors and beautiful presentation of the dish.

Over the years, I have continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. Each time I make Szechwan Orange Chicken, I am reminded of that fateful day in Beijing when I first discovered this incredible dish, and I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman who shared her recipe with me.

Now, as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I have. May it bring you joy and fond memories of our shared love for cooking and culinary adventures. Bon appétit!