Orange Chicken

Step 1

Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, beat the egg, soy sauce and sugar. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 2

Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, orange juice, broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, and pepper flakes together. Set aside.

Step 3

Coat the chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk the cornstarch, flour, and baking soda. Sprinkle over the chicken/marinade mixture and toss until each piece of meat separates and has a dry, clumpy coating.

Step 4

Fry the chicken: Line a plate with a few layers of paper towels and set next to the stove. In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat about ¼ inch of oil to 350°F. You'll know it's ready when you drop a piece of chicken in, and it sizzles vigorously. Working in three batches so as not to crowd the pan, shallow-fry a third of the coated chicken until golden brown and crispy, 4 to 5 minutes, turning once midway through cooking and adjusting the heat as needed. Transfer the chicken to the paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

Step 5

Finish the dish: Carefully drain the oil from the pan and wipe clean with a paper towel. Add about 1 tablespoon of oil. Over medium heat, add the ginger, garlic, and scallion whites. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant; do not brown. Add the sauce, bring it to a boil, and let it cook until thickened and glossy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the crispy chicken, tossing until the sauce fully coats it, 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle with the dark green scallions and serve over rice.

Step 6

Note: Nutritional information was calculated using chicken thighs and assuming approximately 2 tablespoons of the oil is absorbed into the chicken when frying. Rice is not included.