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 not only delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty orange sauce, this dish stands out for its bold flavors and simple preparation. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a hearty lunch, Orange Chicken Fried Rice is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation – This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy families.
One-Pan Convenience – With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
Flavor Explosion – The combination of chicken, turkey turkey turkey bacon, and orange sauce creates an irresistible taste sensation.
Versatile Ingredients – Easily customize with your choice of vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch for leftovers that are just as tasty the next day!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to streamline your experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Spatula
Why These Tools Matter
Large skillet or wok – Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing for better heat circulation.
Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining seasonings and coating chicken before cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient portions, crucial for achieving the best flavor balance.
Whisk – Ideal for beating eggs thoroughly before adding them to the rice mixture.
Ingredients
This is an easy one pan version of my family’s favorite takeout!
For the Chicken
1 lb chicken breast
Salt (pepper, garlic powder)
For the Coating
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp each of salt (pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder)
For Cooking
2 tbsp butter
Sesame oil (or any oil)
4 strips of turkey turkey turkey bacon
For the Rice
2 cups uncooked long grain white rice
12 oz frozen mixed vegetables
Low Sodium Soy Sauce
For Garnish
4 eggs
Chopped green onions
Orange Sauce (Store Bought)
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How to Make Orange Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare Your Rice
Cook 2 cups of uncooked rice according to package directions. Once cooked, transfer to a container and place it in the refrigerator to cool.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Cut 1 pound of chicken into small cubes. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Create Coating Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and 1 tsp each of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Toss the seasoned chicken in the flour and cornstarch mixture until well-coated. Shake off any excess coating and set aside on a plate.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet.
Step 6: Cook Turkey Turkey turkey bacon
Add chopped turkey turkey turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir until cooked through.
Step 7: Combine Rice and Vegetables
Add cooked rice and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet with turkey turkey turkey bacon. Add more oil if needed—usually around 2-3 tablespoons will suffice. Stir well.
Step 8: Season
Season with additional salt, pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce (start with about 2 tablespoons).
Step 9: Add Eggs
Make a well in the center of the rice mixture. Pour in four whisked eggs. Stir until scrambled and incorporated into the rice mixture.
Step 10: Final Cooking
Continue cooking until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary with more salt or soy sauce if desired.
Step 11: Add Orange Sauce
Toss the cooked chicken in orange sauce before pouring it over the fried rice mixture.
Step 12: Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped green onions before serving hot! Enjoy your homemade Orange Chicken Fried Rice!
How to Serve Orange Chicken Fried Rice
Serving Orange Chicken Fried Rice can elevate your meal experience, turning a simple dish into a delightful feast. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this flavorful dish.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle on top for a fresh crunch.
Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty flavor and aesthetic appeal.
Cilantro: Brighten the dish with fragrant herbs.
Pair with Refreshing Salads
Cucumber Salad: A cool, crunchy side that complements the warm rice.
Asian Slaw: A tangy, crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots adds texture.
Serve in Unique Bowls
Bento Boxes: Create a visually appealing meal by segmenting the rice and garnishes.
Small Cast Iron Skillets: Present individual portions for a rustic touch.
Accompany with Dipping Sauces
Soy Sauce: A classic addition that enhances the umami flavors.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a sweet kick that pairs well with the orange sauce.
How to Perfect Orange Chicken Fried Rice
To achieve the best results with your Orange Chicken Fried Rice, consider these helpful tips.
Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of salt and spices to enhance flavor.
Cold Rice is Key: Using chilled rice helps prevent clumping and creates that perfect fried texture.
High Heat Cooking: Cook on medium-high heat to give your rice that desirable crispy finish.
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even distribution of flavors.
Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Include veggies towards the end of cooking to maintain their crunch.
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Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken Fried Rice
Pairing side dishes with your Orange Chicken Fried Rice can create a complete meal that excites the palate. Here are some great options to consider.
Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables; perfect for dipping.
Edamame Beans: Lightly salted steamed beans add protein and fiber.
Miso Soup: A warm, savory soup that complements the main dish beautifully.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick-cooked greens provide a nutritious and vibrant side.
Garlic Broccoli: Sautéed broccoli seasoned with garlic offers a healthy crunch.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits cleanses the palate after rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Orange Chicken Fried Rice, a few common pitfalls can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time closely and remove it from heat when it’s golden brown and cooked through.
Not Using Cold Rice: Freshly cooked rice can become mushy in fried rice. Always use cold, day-old rice or refrigerate freshly cooked rice before using it in this dish.
Skipping Seasoning: A bland fried rice is disappointing. Don’t forget to season your ingredients as you go, adjusting flavors with salt, pepper, and soy sauce.
Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding can steam the ingredients instead of frying them. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that desired crispy texture.
Ignoring Vegetable Prep: Not cutting vegetables evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your mixed vegetables are chopped into similar sizes for consistent cooking.
Using Too Much Sauce: Adding too much orange sauce can overpower the dish. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent steam buildup.
Freezing Orange Chicken Fried Rice
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Divide into portions for easier thawing.
Reheating Orange Chicken Fried Rice
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to avoid sticking; stir occasionally until heated through.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I add to Orange Chicken Fried Rice?
You can customize it with different proteins like beef or shrimp, or add extra veggies such as bell peppers or snap peas for more flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and skip the turkey turkey turkey bacon for a delightful vegetarian option that still packs flavor.
How do I make my fried rice crispy?
Ensure your rice is cold before cooking, use high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes! Brown rice is a healthier alternative but will require longer cooking times. Adjust accordingly if you decide to make this switch.
How spicy is Orange Chicken Fried Rice?
The spice level depends on how much chili powder you add. Feel free to adjust it according to your taste preference!
Conclusion
Orange Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving takeout!