Name: Vegan Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1/2 cup neutral oil (canola works well); 1 package tofu (16 oz / 454 g); 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup cornstarch; 1/4-1/3 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup orange juice; 1/3-1/2 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional); 2 teaspoons crushed ginger; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening); 1 tablespoon orange zest

Jump to Recipe

When the craving for something crispy and tangy hits, there’s nothing that can top the iconic flavors of traditional orange chicken. But what if you could enjoy all that deliciousness in a vegan package? This Vegan Orange Chicken, made with tofu, is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy this beloved dish without the meat. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll possibly become a staple in your kitchen!

Reasons You’ll Love Making It

What sets this recipe apart from others? For starters, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying meal. It’s budget-friendly too! With simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, this dish is accessible without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s kid-approved—who can resist crispy tofu smothered in a sweet and tangy orange sauce?

“I made this Vegan Orange Chicken for my family, and they couldn’t believe it wasn’t the real deal! It was a hit!" – Happy Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Vegan Orange Chicken is a delightful adventure that’s both straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by pressing and preparing your tofu to ensure it’s crispy when you fry it. You’ll coat the tofu in a light batter that creates that satisfying crunch, followed by simmering a vibrant orange sauce that ties the dish together beautifully. The result is a bowl of flavorful goodness that’s sure to impress!

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

1/2 cup of neutral oil (canola works well)
1 package of tofu (16 oz / 454 g)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup cornstarch
1/4-1/3 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup of orange juice
1/3-1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional for a kick)
2 teaspoons crushed ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
1 tablespoon orange zest

Feel free to swap out tamari for soy sauce if you’re gluten-free, or adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your liking!

Step-by-Step Directions

Start by pressing and patting dry your tofu. If you’re using Trader Joe’s High Protein Tofu, you can skip the pressing.
Cut the tofu into small 1-inch nuggets. The rough edges will help create a crispier texture.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and garlic powder.
Gradually add water, whisking until you achieve a slightly runny batter.
Coat the tofu nuggets in the batter until they’re evenly covered.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the battered tofu pieces.
Fry each side for about 5-6 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
In a separate bowl, combine the sauce ingredients—orange juice, sugar, tamari, vinegar, Sriracha (if using), ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Pour the sauce into the skillet over medium heat, stirring and simmering for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Mix in the crispy tofu, coating each piece with the sauce.
Serve over steamed rice and enjoy your homemade Vegan Orange Chicken!

Best Way to Serve

To make your meal even more delightful, consider serving your Vegan Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavor. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables or some steamed broccoli for a nutritious and colorful plate. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top. Not only do these add visual interest, but they also enhance the flavor profile!

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the tofu and sauce separate to maintain the crispy texture. The Vegan Orange Chicken will last for up to 3 days when stored properly. To reheat, you can air fry or sauté it on the stove for better crispness, rather than using the microwave.

Expert Advice

For the crispiest tofu, make sure to really press out as much moisture as possible. You can even freeze tofu the night before and then thaw it; this changes its texture, making it more absorbent for flavors. Also, adjusting the sugar in the sauce can help you cater to your sweetness preference—try starting with less and adding more as needed to find your perfect balance!

Creative twists

Want to shake things up? Consider adding some broccoli or bell peppers to the stir-fry for extra nutrition and color. You could also experiment with different citrus fruits—like lemon or lime juice—for a refreshing twist. For a more Asian-inspired flavor, adding some sesame oil or swapping the rice for quinoa can elevate the dish even further!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Vegan Orange Chicken?
Preparation and cooking time will take about 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
Can I substitute the tofu?
Yes! Consider using tempeh or seitan as alternatives, but keep in mind that the cooking times may vary.
Does it freeze well?
While the tofu can be frozen, the sauce is best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, keep tofu and sauce separate to preserve textures.

Dive into this vibrant dish today, and let your tastebuds dance with joy over the delicious combination of crispy tofu and orangey goodness!