With its crispy chunks of tender chicken smothered in a tangy, zesty orange sauce, it's no wonder that fans of this dish want to recreate it in their kitchens. This Cheesecake Factory copycat recipe allows you to do just that, and it's easier than you might think.To achieve the texture and taste that Cheesecake Factory is known for, you'll need to gather ingredients such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts, eggs, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, soy sauce, brown sugar and ginger.
2poundsbonelessskinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
1 1/2cupsall-purpose flour
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper
1-2eggsbeaten
Vegetable oil for frying
1 1/2cupswater
2tablespoonsfreshly squeezed orange juice
1/4cupfreshly squeezed lemon juice
1tablespoonsoy sauce
1tablespooncornstarch
1tablespoonwater
1/2tablespoongarlic powder
Instructions
Combine the all-purpose flour, salt and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Dredge the chicken cubes in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan on medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Combine the water, freshly squeezed orange juice, lemon juice and soy sauce in a separate saucepan.Bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering orange sauce. Add the garlic powder and whisk until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Once the sauce has thickened, gently fold the fried chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated.Serve your Cheesecake Factory Orange Chicken immediately and enjoy the tender, flavorful dish with your favorite sides.