What to Serve with Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish combining tender chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This crispy and flavorful dish has become a favorite for many, but what about its side dishes? If you are wondering what to serve with orange chicken, many delicious options can complement this mouth-watering entree.

The History of the Famous Dish

Orange chicken is a popular dish that has become a staple in many Chinese restaurants worldwide. This sweet and tangy dish is made by frying battered chicken pieces and then tossing them in a delicious orange sauce.

While it may seem like an Americanized version of traditional Chinese cuisine, the origins of this famous dish can be traced back to Hunan province in China.

Legend has it that the original recipe for orange chicken was created by a chef named Peng Chang-Kuei, who fled to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War. There he opened his restaurant and began experimenting with new dishes.

One day he combined dried tangerine peel with chili peppers to create a unique sauce, which he poured over fried chicken pieces. The result was an instant hit and soon became known as "General Tso's Chicken."

Are There Health Benefits of Orange Chicken?

Not only does it taste delicious, but this popular dish also offers numerous health benefits, making it a great addition to any diet. Orange chicken is high in protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue, and low in fat, making it an excellent option for weight-conscious individuals.

One of the best things about orange chicken is its versatility. When choosing what to serve with orange chicken, know that there are healthy options that will allow you to create a well-rounded meal.

For example, serving orange chicken with steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots can add vitamins and minerals to your plate while keeping calories low.

Alternatively, pairing orange chicken with brown rice or quinoa can provide complex carbohydrates that will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.

Drinks that Pair Well with Orange Chicken

If you plan to serve orange chicken for dinner, you might wonder what drinks would pair perfectly with this delicious Chinese dish. Whether you prefer something sweet or tangy, plenty of options can complement the flavors of your meal and make your taste buds sing.

One classic choice is a glass of white wine like Riesling or Pinot Grigio, which have a bright acidity that pairs well with the sweetness of the orange sauce. Another great option is an ice-cold beer like a pale ale or lager, which can cut through the richness of the chicken and provide a refreshing contrast to its sweetness.

If you'd rather have something non-alcoholic, try serving iced tea or lemonade for a dose of citrusy goodness that will bring out the flavors in your dish. If you prefer the water, add a lemon to deliver the citrus flavors without the added sugar.

Let's Talk Side Dishes!

One great side option for orange chicken is rice. You can add some vegetables like peas or carrots to your fried rice to give it an extra nutrition kick.

Noodles are another great side of orange chicken. You can choose rice vermicelli noodles, egg noodles, or wide white wheat noodles. These options are good if you want to avoid rice (or are trying to cut back on carbs).

Another fantastic side dish option is stir-fried veggies. Broccoli, mushrooms, green beans, bell peppers – all these veggies make excellent companions for the tangy flavor of orange chicken.