How To Make Orange Chicken Ahead Of Time – The Easy Way!

Orange chicken, a beloved dish known for its sweet and tangy flavor, is a staple in many households. But what if you don’t have time to cook it fresh every time? Can you make orange chicken ahead of time? The answer is yes! With proper planning and storage, you can enjoy delicious orange chicken without the hassle of last-minute preparation.

Preparing Orange Chicken Ahead of Time

1. Cooking the Chicken

• Marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to cool.

2. Preparing the Sauce

• In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
• Stir in grated orange zest for extra flavor.

3. Combining the Chicken and Sauce

• Once the chicken and sauce are cool, combine them in a large bowl.
• Toss the chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.

Storage Options

1. Refrigerator Storage

• Store the orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Freezer Storage

• Freeze the orange chicken in airtight freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Chicken

1. Reheating from the Refrigerator

• Remove the orange chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before reheating.
• Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok and fry the chicken over medium heat until warmed through.

2. Reheating from the Freezer

• Thaw the orange chicken overnight in the refrigerator or microwave on the defrost setting.
• Once thawed, reheat the chicken as directed above.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Do not overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• Allow the orange chicken to cool completely before storing it to prevent sogginess.
• If the sauce thickens too much during reheating, add a splash of water or orange juice.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve orange chicken over rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
• Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of honey.

Benefits of Making Orange Chicken Ahead of Time

• Time-saving: Prepare the orange chicken in advance and have it ready to go for busy weeknights.
• Meal planning: Plan your meals ahead of time by making orange chicken and storing it for later use.
• Convenient: Enjoy delicious orange chicken without the hassle of cooking every time.

Takeaways

Making orange chicken ahead of time is an excellent way to save time and enjoy a delicious meal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can prepare and store orange chicken with confidence. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply want to simplify your meal preparation, making orange chicken ahead of time is a smart and satisfying choice.

What You Need to Learn

Q: How long can I store orange chicken in the refrigerator?
A: Orange chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: How long can I store orange chicken in the freezer?
A: Orange chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use frozen orange chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen orange chicken. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or microwave on the defrost setting before reheating.

Q: What are some side dishes that pair well with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to your liking, such as bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or water chestnuts.