Orange chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that can be easily incorporated into any meal.
Whether you’re looking for something to serve as a main course or to accompany your favorite side dishes, orange chicken is sure to please.
This article will explore 15 of the best dishes to pair with this classic Chinese-American dish.
From spicy stir-fry vegetables to creamy risotto, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Get ready for a culinary adventure as we explore the best sides for your orange chicken dinner!
Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Orange Chicken – By Chef Natalie
To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Orange Chicken!
| Side Dish | Why it goes well with Orange Chicken |
|---|---|
| Fried Rice | The combination of savory fried rice with the tangy and flavorful Orange Chicken creates a satisfying and balanced meal. |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | The crisp and vibrant stir-fried vegetables complement the bold flavors of Orange Chicken while providing a healthy and colorful accompaniment. |
| Lo Mein | The soft and chewy noodles of lo mein add a comforting element that pairs well with the zesty and sweet Orange Chicken sauce. |
| Egg Rolls | The crispy and savory egg rolls offer a delightful contrast to the tender and tangy Orange Chicken, creating a textural and flavorful experience. |
| Egg Drop Soup | The light and soothing egg drop soup provides a comforting and complementary addition to the bold flavors of Orange Chicken. |
| Noodles | Plain noodles, whether steamed or boiled, can serve as a simple and versatile side dish that pairs well with the flavors of Orange Chicken. |
| Pot Stickers | The savory and pan-fried pot stickers offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors alongside the vibrant Orange Chicken. |
| Wontons | Whether steamed or fried, wontons provide a delectable accompaniment to Orange Chicken, adding a touch of indulgence to the meal. |
| Fried Bananas | The caramelized sweetness of fried bananas creates a lovely contrast to the tangy and savory Orange Chicken, satisfying the taste buds. |
| Broccoli | Steamed or stir-fried broccoli offers a healthy and crunchy component that complements the flavors of Orange Chicken. |
| Sweet and Sour Sauce | The tangy and fruity profile of sweet and sour sauce pairs harmoniously with the vibrant flavors of Orange Chicken. |
| Fried Tofu | Crispy fried tofu adds a vegetarian-friendly protein option that complements the citrusy and bold Orange Chicken. |
| Sesame Seeds | Sprinkling sesame seeds over Orange Chicken adds a nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch, enhancing the overall dining experience. |
| Risotto | Creamy and flavorful risotto serves as a rich and satisfying side dish that can balance the tangy and zesty flavors of Orange Chicken. |
| Fried Plantains | The caramelized sweetness and soft texture of fried plantains create a delightful contrast to the bold and savory Orange Chicken. |
1. Fried Rice
Fried rice is a classic accompaniment to orange chicken.
It’s easy to make and flavorful, making it the perfect side dish for this zesty entrée.
To start, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add in your choice of aromatics such as garlic, ginger, or onions.
Then add the cooked rice and stir fry together until everything is well combined and heated through.
To give it an extra boost of flavor, season the fried rice with soy sauce or tamari.
You can also choose to add some vegetables like peas and carrots for added texture and nutrition.
Finally, finish off your fried rice by sprinkling in some sesame seeds for a nice nutty flavor.
Your fried rice is now ready to be served with your orange chicken dish! Enjoy a warm plate of comfort food that will surely please your guests.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables
The smell of stir-fried vegetables, with their bright crunch and vibrant hues, is a delightful accompaniment to the sweet and savory orange chicken.
Brightly colored bell peppers, crisp carrots, and tender broccoli sing in harmony when tossed together in a hot wok.
The vegetables are quickly cooked, just enough to bring out their natural sweetness.
The addition of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce enhances the flavor of the vegetables without overpowering them.
A few drops of sesame oil bring a subtle nuttiness to the dish, making it even more irresistible.
With all the bold flavors working in tandem, the result is some truly delicious sides that can be served alongside your orange chicken creation.
This vegetable stir-fry is an easy-to-make dish that adds texture and taste to any meal.
It’s sure to delight your family or guests with its colorful presentation and delectable flavor combination – making it an ideal complement to your orange chicken dish!
3. Lo Mein
Vegetables are a great side dish to pair with orange chicken, but why not try something a little different?
Enter Lo Mein – an easy, delicious Chinese noodle dish that goes perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of orange chicken.
To make Lo Mein, start by boiling your favorite Chinese noodles according to package instructions.
Drain them and set aside.
Heat up some oil in a wok or skillet, then add in any vegetables you like – carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms – the options are limitless! Saute until softened.
Add in some garlic and ginger for flavor if you like.
Finally, pour in prepared sauce (such as soy sauce) and the cooked noodles.
Toss it all together until everything is evenly coated in sauce, then serve alongside your orange chicken entrée.
Tempted to give it a try? With its unique combination of flavors and textures, Lo Mein is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Whether you want to keep things simple with just noodles and veggies or add more ingredients like shrimp or beef to the mix – the choice is yours!
4. Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are the perfect accompaniment to orange chicken and make for a delicious side dish.
With their crunchy exterior and warm, savory filling, these fried rolls will add another layer of flavor to your meal.
The key to making a great egg roll lies in the filling.
This can be anything from pork and cabbage to shredded vegetables, or even an Asian-style shrimp mixture.
You can make your own with store-bought wrappers, or even buy them pre-made at any number of Asian markets.
No matter which type of filling you choose, your egg rolls will be sure to delight! Serve them with some sweet chili sauce for dipping and you’ll have a delectable accompaniment that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
5. Egg Drop Soup
Egg rolls are a classic Chinese side dish that pairs perfectly with orange chicken.
They are savory, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious! But after a few egg rolls, you may be looking for something else to add to the dinner table.
That’s when egg drop soup comes in.
Egg drop soup is another traditional Chinese dish similar to what you would find in a restaurant.
It’s made with beaten eggs, broth and other ingredients like mushrooms, spinach and green onions.
This warm and comforting soup is the perfect accompaniment to your orange chicken dinner:
- Aromatic ginger brings out the flavor of the broth
- Dried wood ear mushrooms give texture and crunch
- Silky eggs create an elegant finish
This combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful addition to any meal.
Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or as part of your main course, egg drop soup adds a special touch that will make your meal memorable.
6. Noodles
Noodles are a great accompaniment for orange chicken.
Their light texture and subtle flavor provide the perfect backdrop for the boldness of the chicken.
Plus, they can easily be adapted to suit any taste or dietary preference – from gluten-free options to egg noodles, there’s something for everyone!
When it comes to noodles, there are countless recipes that pair wonderfully with orange chicken.
Consider trying out a stir-fried noodle dish with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce.
Or try your hand at creating a comforting noodle soup with chunks of chicken and an array of herbs and spices.
No matter how you serve up noodles with orange chicken, it’s sure to be a winning combination.
So don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen – you might just discover your new favorite meal!
7. Pot Stickers
Noodles are a great accompaniment to orange chicken, but if you’re looking for something different, try pot stickers.
These Chinese dumplings are filled with a variety of savory ingredients like pork, beef, or vegetables and steamed or fried.
They have a delicious crunchy texture and can easily be enjoyed alongside the succulent orange chicken.
Here are four reasons why you should consider serving pot stickers with your orange chicken:
- Potstickers add variety to your meal: Instead of the same old rice or noodles, these dumplings provide an exciting new flavor sensation.
- They take just minutes to prepare: You can quickly steam or fry frozen pot stickers in no time at all.
- They’re easy to customize: With plenty of filling options, you can make sure everyone’s tastes are catered for.
- Everyone loves them: From kids to adults, there’s something about these delights that makes them irresistible!
Potstickers could be the perfect addition to your next orange chicken feast – why not give them a go?
8. Wontons
Nothing can quite compare to the classic combination of orange chicken and wontons.
These two dishes, when combined together, create a delightful symphony of flavors that are sure to tantalize the taste buds.
Wontons are a type of Chinese dumpling made from wheat flour dough and filled with pork, shrimp, vegetables or other ingredients.
The filling is folded into a half-moon-shaped wrapper and then boiled or fried until golden and crispy.
The result is a savory snack that pairs perfectly with orange chicken.
When served together, the crispy texture of the wonton contrasts nicely with the juicy orange chicken.
The salty umami flavor of the wonton complements the sweet-tangy flavors of the orange chicken to create an unforgettable combination.
This unique pairing also looks beautiful on a plate; both dishes feature bright colors and attractive shapes that are sure to draw attention at any dinner table.
This irresistible duo is easy to make at home as well as enjoy at many Asian restaurants around the world.
Whether you’re looking for an impressive meal for guests or simply want to treat yourself, look no further than this classic combo of orange chicken and wontons – your taste buds will thank you!
9. Fried Bananas
Wontons offer a savory and satisfying accompaniment to orange chicken.
Their crunchy shells provide a delightful contrast to the juicy, tender chicken, making for a truly memorable meal.
When you’re looking for something sweet and unique to pair with your tasty entrée, fried bananas are an excellent choice.
Fried bananas have a slightly crispy exterior that gives way to their incredibly soft interior.
Their creamy sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy orange glaze that coats the chicken.
Plus, they offer an interesting texture that will take your meal to the next level.
To prepare fried bananas, start by cutting them into thick slices before coating them in a batter made of flour, sugar and salt.
Place these slices into a skillet filled with hot oil and fry until they turn golden-brown in color.
Serve them warm alongside your orange chicken and enjoy!
10. Broccoli
When it comes to side dishes, broccoli is probably one of the first that come to mind.
It’s a classic and for good reason! Broccoli has a mild and slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich orange chicken.
Not to mention, it adds a beautiful vibrant green hue to the plate.
To make this simple side dish even more special, try roasting it in the oven with garlic and sesame oil.
The result is tender yet crunchy florets that are full of flavor.
To get started, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Next, cut 1-2 heads of broccoli into small florets and spread them out on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle them with about 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of garlic cloves (minced).
Finally, season generously with salt and pepper before popping it in the oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
This easy but delicious broccoli dish is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party! Serve it alongside some orange chicken for a truly memorable meal that will leave you wanting more.
With its mild flavor and crisp texture, this roasted broccoli goes incredibly well with all sorts of dishes – not just orange chicken!
11. Sweet And Sour Sauce
The sweet and sour sauce that accompanies orange chicken is an essential element in the dish.
Its balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it a perfect accompaniment to the bold, savory flavor of the chicken.
The combination of sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and garlic brings out the natural sweetness of the oranges used in the dish.
This sauce is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients that can all be found in any kitchen pantry.
A quick stir-fry of sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and garlic will yield a thick syrup that can be poured over your chicken for a unique flavor combination.
It’s an ideal pairing for those looking for a little something extra with their meal.
A drizzle of this sweet and sour sauce over your orange chicken gives it an irresistible richness that will have your taste buds singing!
This addition to the dish adds depth to its flavor without overwhelming it – making it a great way to enhance its overall appeal.
12. Fried Tofu
Fried tofu is a great accompaniment to orange chicken.
It’s full of flavor and texture and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
The key to making the perfect fried tofu is all about the preparation.
First, select fresh extra-firm tofu for frying; it will hold together better than softer varieties when exposed to high heat.
Cut into cubes or strips, depending on preference, then marinate in soy sauce, rice wine, garlic and ginger for at least 30 minutes before frying.
Next comes the cooking process.
Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large non-stick skillet or wok until shimmering – but not smoking! Fry the tofu for about 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve with orange chicken as a delicious side dish:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds
- Toss with a sweet chili sauce
- Drizzle with teriyaki glaze
- Add some Sriracha for an extra kick
Fried tofu has so much potential – get creative and experiment with different marinades and sauces! This simple side dish is sure to bring something special to your meal.
13. Sesame Seeds
Fried tofu is an excellent accompaniment to orange chicken.
Its light, crispy texture contrasts the succulent juiciness of the chicken and provides a unique flavor experience.
The addition of sesame seeds gives this dish a nutty and savory taste, making it a fantastic choice for any meal.
Sesame seeds are incredibly versatile, with a subtle but unmistakable flavor that works wonderfully with all sorts of dishes.
For orange chicken, they can be sprinkled on top of the fried tofu before being cooked or added to the sauce for extra crunch.
They also make a great garnish, adding color and texture to the plate.
Including sesame seeds when preparing orange chicken is an easy way to enhance its flavor without overpowering the delicate balance of sweet and savory notes.
Whether you use them as a garnish for the fried tofu or add them to the sauce, your guests will appreciate the final product.
14. Risotto
Risotto is an Italian dish that is perfect for pairing with orange chicken.
It has a creamy texture and nutty flavor, making it a great accompaniment to the sweeter, tangier flavors of the chicken.
Here are three reasons why risotto pairs perfectly:
- It provides a savory contrast. The nutty flavor of the rice and the buttery richness of the Parmesan cheese offer a delightful counterpoint to the sweetness of the orange chicken.
- It absorbs sauces well. The starchiness of the risotto helps it absorb any sauces or dressings that you pour over it, making your plate truly come alive with flavor.
- It adds texture. The al dente bite of the cooked rice adds some much-needed texture to your meal, balancing out the softness of the chicken and vegetables nicely.
If you’re looking for a side dish to serve with orange chicken, look no further than risotto! Its rich flavor and creamy consistency make it an ideal companion for this classic dish.
15. Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are the perfect accompaniment to orange chicken.
They add a touch of sweetness and crunch to any meal.
This easy-to-make dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
To make fried plantains, start by peeling two ripe yellow plantains and cutting them into thin slices.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the plantain slices in a single layer and fry until they are golden brown on both sides.
Transfer fried plantains to paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt while still hot.
Serve as part of your orange chicken feast for a delicious side dish that will have your guests asking for seconds!
Conclusion
In conclusion, orange chicken is a classic Chinese dish that can be served with a variety of sides.
From fried rice to egg drop soup, there’s something for everyone.
I love adding fried tofu and risotto to the mix, as they add a unique texture and flavor.
For those looking for a sweet touch, try serving fried plantains alongside your orange chicken.
All of these dishes make for an amazing combination that’ll have everyone coming back for more! It’s truly the perfect meal for any night of the week.
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