Citrus Delight: How to Make Florida's Famous Orange Chicken

When it comes to combining the tangy sweetness of oranges with the savory richness of chicken, no place does it better than Florida. Known for its juicy oranges and vibrant culinary scene, Florida brings a unique twist to a beloved dish: Orange Chicken. This recipe captures the essence of Florida’s fresh produce and sunny flavors, creating a meal that's both delicious and refreshing.

Photo byCharles - Dalle 3

Imagine juicy, tender chicken pieces enveloped in a glossy, sweet, and tangy orange sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crisp vegetables. The zestiness of fresh Florida oranges adds a bright and aromatic punch to the dish, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a festive gathering.

Recipe: Florida Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup Florida Orange Juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 egg whites
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 packed tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• Kosher salt and crushed red pepper flakes to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Vegetable or peanut oil for frying
• Green onion for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch and egg whites. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the Florida Orange Juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in a small amount of water and add to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens.
5. Return the fried chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately with rice or steamed vegetables.

The Final Touch

This Florida Orange Chicken is a testament to the state's rich agricultural heritage and its ability to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The dish’s perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, coupled with the bright citrus notes, makes it a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor looking to bring a piece of Florida’s sunshine into your kitchen, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the state’s iconic produce and culinary creativity.

Sources:

Family Recipe