Crispy Orange Chicken

Ingredients

• Chicken breast (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup)
• Vegetable oil (1/4 cup (for frying))
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced)
• Orange juice (1/2 cup, freshly squeezed)
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
• Honey (2 tablespoons)
• Orange zest (1 tablespoon)
• Green onions (2, sliced (for garnish))
• Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon (for garnish))

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Toss the chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, orange zest, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined.
4. Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the sauce to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
5. Add the crispy chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the orange sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
6. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.