Gluten-Free Orange Chicken
A delightful dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a vibrant orange sauce, perfect for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour Use a good quality brand for best results.
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups gluten-free breadcrumbs For a crispy coating.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For frying.
Sauce
- 1 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed if possible.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest Zest from 1 orange.
- 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup To taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for added heat.
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, pat them dry, and season with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with gluten-free flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, then the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs. Set aside.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same skillet, add orange juice, orange zest, gluten-free soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir into the bubbling sauce and cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat for an additional 1-2 minutes and remove from heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot over rice or quinoa, with steamed vegetables and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
For best results, ensure you use good quality gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. You can adjust the spice level by increasing red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be used in fried rice for a new meal.