Introduction

Orange Chicken and Sesame Chicken are two of the most beloved Chinese-American dishes. Both offer crispy, fried chicken coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. However, they have distinct tastes—Orange Chicken is tangy and citrusy, while Sesame Chicken is slightly sweet with a nutty hint from sesame seeds. Let’s explore both recipes and see how they compare!

History

Orange Chicken is said to have originated in Hunan cuisine, known for its bold and tangy flavors. It gained massive popularity in the U.S., especially through Panda Express. Sesame Chicken, on the other hand, is inspired by traditional Chinese flavors but has been Americanized to include a sweeter sauce with a sesame twist.

Ingredients

Orange Chicken – Restaurant Style

For the Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Oil for frying

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons water + 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix the sliced chicken, salt, paprika, and eggs.
2. Coat the chicken in a mixture of flour and cornstarch.
3. Repeat the process for a crispy texture.
4. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large pan and fry the chicken in batches until golden brown.
5. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix all ingredients except the orange juice.
2. In a large pan, heat the orange juice and slowly pour in the sauce mixture.
3. Whisk until combined and let simmer over medium-low heat until thickened.
4. Add the fried chicken and mix well to coat.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot. Enjoy!

Sesame Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 3 chicken thighs (deboned and skin removed) or 1 pound
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat with the flour mixture.
4. Lay the coated chicken on a plate.
5. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a pan and fry the chicken in batches until crispy.
6. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, water, and cornstarch.
2. In a large pan, heat the sauce mixture and let it boil.
3. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Add the fried chicken and toss until well coated.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve over rice. Enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits

Both dishes are packed with flavor, but they also offer different nutritional benefits:

• Orange Chicken: Rich in Vitamin C from fresh orange juice and a good source of protein.
• Sesame Chicken: Contains healthy fats from sesame oil and is slightly lower in sugar compared to Orange Chicken.

Who Loves These Dishes?

Both dishes are loved by fans of Chinese-American cuisine. Orange Chicken is great for those who enjoy sweet and tangy flavors, while Sesame Chicken is perfect for those who love a rich, slightly sweet, and nutty taste.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the tangy zest of Orange Chicken or the nutty sweetness of Sesame Chicken, both dishes are delicious and easy to make at home. Try both and decide which one is your favorite!