Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange has truly transformed my weeknight dinners into something special. I still remember the first time I tasted this dish; it was at a small, unassuming restaurant, and the vibrant citrus aroma hit me before the plate even reached the table. The perfect balance of sweet and tangy, combined with that irresistible crunch, made me instantly obsessed. I knew I had to recreate that magic at home, especially those delightful Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange Slices that adorned the dish. After many attempts, I’ve finally perfected my own version of this amazing sweet orange peel snack recipe, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
I know you’re going to adore this Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange recipe as much as I do. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to the kitchen and the dinner table. Here’s why I think you’ll fall in love with it:
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes creates an explosion of flavor that will excite your taste buds.
- Quick & Easy Prep: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast.
- Delightful Texture: The chicken is wonderfully crispy, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite, perfectly complemented by the smooth glaze.
- Versatile & Fun: It’s a fantastic recipe for family dinners, and even the pickiest eaters often love the sweet orange flavor. You can even make extra candied orange slices for garnish!
- Budget-Friendly: Using common ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet without compromising on taste or quality.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant color and appetizing aroma make this dish a showstopper, especially when adorned with delicate candied orange slices.
Ingredients for Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this incredibly flavorful dish. I always make sure to have these on hand for my homemade Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces – I find this cut cooks quickly and evenly.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – essential for that initial crispy coating.
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – just a touch for a little kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – for a hint of color and mild flavor.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – helps the flour mixture adhere to the chicken.
- ½ cup cornstarch – this is my secret for an extra crispy exterior, almost like a delicate orange peel candy texture on the chicken.
- Vegetable oil, for frying – enough to submerge the chicken pieces for a golden crisp.
- For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice – fresh is key here for the brightest citrus notes.
- Zest of 1 orange – provides intense orange aroma and flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – balances the tanginess of the orange.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce – adds umami and savory depth to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – brightens the sauce and adds a subtle tang.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water – this slurry is crucial for thickening the glaze to that perfect, glossy consistency.
How to Make Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
Making this incredible Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange dish is surprisingly straightforward, and I’m going to walk you through each step. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen!
- Step 1: First, let’s get our chicken ready. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give it a good whisk until everything is evenly distributed. This is our flavorful dredging mix.
- Step 2: Set up your dredging station. You’ll need three shallow dishes: one with the beaten eggs, one with the flour mixture from Step 1, and one with the cornstarch. Take each piece of chicken, dip it fully into the egg, then coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Finally, roll it in the cornstarch. This triple coating is key to how to make crispy glazed orange slices truly shine!
- Step 3: Heat your frying oil. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, pour in about ½ inch of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers, reaching about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, a small drop of water should sizzle immediately.
- Step 4: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully golden brown and intensely crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is amazing! Remove the cooked chicken and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Step 5: Now for the star of the show – the glaze! In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 6: While the glaze is simmering, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. This is your thickening slurry. Once the glaze is simmering, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan while continuously stirring. Continue to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze thickens to a beautiful, glossy consistency that clings to a spoon.
- Step 7: Add the crispy chicken pieces directly into the thickened orange glaze in the saucepan. Gently toss the chicken until every piece is gloriously coated in that sweet, tangy, and aromatic sauce. Every piece should be glistening. This is how to make crispy glazed orange slices truly irresistible.
- Step 8: Transfer the delicious Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange chicken to a serving dish immediately. Serve it hot over steamed rice or with your favorite side vegetables. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
I’ve learned a few tricks over time that really elevate this Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange from good to absolutely amazing. These simple tips will ensure your dish is perfect every single time:
- Double Fry for Extra Crisp: For an unbelievably crunchy exterior, try frying the chicken once for 3 minutes, removing it, then frying again for another 2-3 minutes. This method locks in the crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches is crucial. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken instead of that desired crispiness.
- Use Fresh Orange Zest: The zest contains powerful oils that deliver an intense burst of fresh orange flavor to your glaze. Don’t skip it!
- Taste and Adjust the Glaze: Before adding the chicken, taste the glaze. You might want a little more tang from vinegar or extra sweetness from sugar to suit your preference.
- Serve Immediately: While delicious, the chicken is at its crispiest right after being coated in the glaze. Serve it right away for the best texture experience.
What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange?
The real secret lies in the double coating technique for the chicken and the balance of the glaze. The cornstarch layer ensures an ultra-crispy exterior that holds up well. For the glaze, using fresh orange juice and zest makes all the difference, creating vibrant and flavorful glazed citrus slices that are irresistible.
Can I make Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange ahead of time?
You can definitely do some prep work in advance! You can bread the chicken pieces and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. The orange glaze can also be made a day ahead and gently reheated. However, I recommend frying the chicken and tossing it with the glaze just before serving for optimal crispiness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange?
First, avoid underheating your oil; it leads to greasy chicken. Second, don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry. Third, ensure your glaze thickens properly; if it’s too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Always keep an eye on your oil temperature and the glaze consistency.
Best Ways to Serve Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
Once you’ve mastered your Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange, you’ll want to serve it in ways that truly highlight its deliciousness. I love pairing this dish with simple sides that complement its vibrant flavors without overpowering them.
My go-to is serving it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, which perfectly soaks up the extra glaze. Another fantastic option is to pair it with steamed or roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced meal. The freshness of the vegetables provides a lovely contrast to the rich, sweet chicken.
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, I often sprinkle a little fresh chopped cilantro or green onions over the top. A final flourish of a few delicate, crunchy orange garnish pieces really elevates the presentation and offers another layer of citrusy texture. This Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange is so versatile, it can even be served as an appetizer at your next gathering!
Nutrition Facts for Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious dish. Here’s an estimate of the nutrition facts per serving for my Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange (this recipe makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fiber: 2g
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use, the exact cooking methods, and portion sizes. Enjoy your flavorful Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange!
How to Store and Reheat Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
Proper storage is essential to enjoy your delicious Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange leftovers. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 30-45 minutes. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the chicken soggy.
Once cooled, transfer the chicken to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange for up to 3 months. I recommend freezing it in individual portions for easy reheating.
To reheat, my preferred method is in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly re-crisped. This helps bring back some of that amazing texture. While it won’t be quite as crispy as fresh, it’s still incredibly flavorful. You won’t achieve a Dehydrated Candied Orange crispness, but it will be delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange
Can I use different cuts of chicken for Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange?
Absolutely! While I prefer chicken breast for its lean texture, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just be sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking, and adjust frying time if needed.
What is candied orange peel and how does it relate to this dish?
What is candied orange peel? It’s essentially orange peel that has been boiled, simmered in sugar syrup, and then often dried or coated in sugar, creating a sweet, chewy, and sometimes slightly firm confection. While this recipe focuses on a savory Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange chicken, the glaze shares similar sweet and citrusy notes with candied orange. You could even garnish your chicken with homemade candied orange peel for an extra burst of concentrated orange flavor and a lovely texture contrast.
How can I make the Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange spicier?
If you like a little heat with your sweet, it’s easy to spice up this Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange. I recommend adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze while it’s simmering, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You could also incorporate some finely minced fresh ginger or a touch of sriracha for a more complex spicy kick without overpowering the delicious orange flavor.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange?
This Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange pairs wonderfully with a variety of simple sides. My favorites include steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up all that delicious glaze. For vegetables, I often serve it with blanched broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens really balances the richness of the chicken and glaze.
Variations of Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange, you might be eager to experiment! I love trying new twists on my favorite recipes, and this dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations you can try to keep things exciting:
- Spicy Orange Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze along with the other ingredients. You can also include a dash of Sriracha for an extra fiery, yet still sweet, Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange.
- Baked (or Air-Fried) Version: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying. Coat the chicken as usual, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Ginger-Infused Glaze: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to your orange glaze while it simmers. This gives the Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange a warm, aromatic depth that complements the citrus beautifully.
- Lemon-Lime Twist: While it won’t be Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange anymore, you can swap out half the orange juice and zest for lemon and lime for a brighter, more tangy glaze. A sprinkle of sweetened orange zest as a garnish can still tie it back to the original inspiration.
Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange: 30-Minute Amazing Taste
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy Sweet Glazed Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and texture to your dining table. This remarkable recipe combines the tangy notes of orange with a crispy coating, making each bite a delightful experience. The bright citrus flavor paired with sweet and savory elements transforms this chicken into a comfort food favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the beaten eggs and then coat it with the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Orange Glaze: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, zest, sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: Slowly add the cornstarch-water mixture to the saucepan while stirring continuously. Cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the crispy chicken pieces to the orange glaze in the saucepan. Toss until fully coated.
- Serve: Transfer the coated chicken to a serving dish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh orange juice and zesty oranges. This enhances the dish’s vibrant flavor profile.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to achieve that perfect crispy texture. Use a thermometer if necessary.
- Experiment with Aromatics: Consider adding fresh ginger or scallions to the glaze for an added complexity of flavor.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the uncoated chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag. For the glaze, store it separately. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat the glaze and fry the chicken when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: Not specified
- Sodium: Not specified
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: Not specified
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
- Trans Fat: Not specified
- Carbohydrates: Not specified
- Fiber: Not specified
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: Not specified