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Gluten-Free Orange Chicken

Enjoy the sweet, tangy crunch of homemade gluten-free orange chicken, quick to prepare and perfect for a family-friendly dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Gluten-Free
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3/4 cup gluten-free flour blend (or almond flour/rice flour as substitutes)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • about 2 cups vegetable oil for frying (with a high smoke point)
For the Sauce
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice Use fresh juice for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Toasting garlic improves flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca starch (for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, place the gluten-free flour.
  3. Dip each chicken piece into the eggs, then coat thoroughly with gluten-free flour.
Cooking
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to 350-375°F.
  2. Fry the chicken pieces in batches for about 4-5 minutes each, until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
Sauce Preparation
  1. In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Warm over medium heat.
  2. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and gradually add it to the sauce while stirring until thickened.
Assembly
  1. Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and toss gently to coat evenly.
  2. Serve immediately to maintain crunch and flavor.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.