Orange chicken is one of those dishes that just hits the spot, doesn’t it? The crispy chicken coated in that sweet and tangy orange sauce is simply irresistible. But here’s the thing—while orange chicken is a star on its own, the right side dishes, sauces, and drinks can take your meal to a whole new level. If you’ve ever wondered, “What goes well with orange chicken?” you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore all the best pairings to make your orange chicken dinner something to remember. Let’s dive in!
What Are the Best Side Dishes for Orange Chicken?
When it comes to orange chicken, side dishes play a crucial role. They not only complement the dish but also balance out the flavors. So, what should you serve alongside this flavorful chicken?
1. Steamed Rice
Steamed rice is a classic choice. It’s simple, it’s fluffy, and it soaks up that delicious orange sauce like a dream. Whether you prefer white rice or brown rice, either will work wonderfully. The subtle flavor of the rice won’t overpower the orange chicken, making it a perfect match.
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Rice | Fluffy, plain rice that absorbs sauces. | Neutral flavor that complements the sweet and tangy orange sauce. |
2. Fried Rice
If you want something with a bit more flavor, fried rice is a fantastic option. With the addition of vegetables, eggs, and sometimes even bits of meat, fried rice adds texture and richness to your meal. The savory notes of soy sauce in the fried rice will balance the sweetness of the orange chicken.
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Rice | Rice stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce. | Adds savory flavor and texture that balances the dish. |
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables
Stir-fried vegetables bring a burst of color and freshness to your plate. Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are great choices. They add a slight crunch and a mix of earthy flavors that complement the sweet and tangy profile of orange chicken.
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | Crisp veggies sautéed with garlic and soy sauce. | Adds crunch and balances sweetness. |
4. Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are a fun and tasty side that brings a delightful crunch. Filled with veggies and sometimes meat, egg rolls are often served with a dipping sauce, adding another layer of flavor to your meal. They’re a great way to start off your orange chicken feast!
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Egg Rolls | Crispy rolls filled with vegetables and meat. | Crunchy texture contrasts with tender chicken. |
What Sauces Complement Orange Chicken?
Sometimes, it’s the sauce that makes the meal. With orange chicken already offering a bold flavor, the right dipping sauce or drizzle can elevate your dish even further. Let’s explore some options.
1. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a go-to condiment that pairs well with many Asian dishes. Its salty and umami-rich flavor provides a nice contrast to the sweet and tangy orange chicken. A light drizzle or a small dish for dipping can add depth to your meal.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | Salty, umami, slightly sweet. | Adds depth and balances sweetness. |
2. Sweet Chili Sauce
Sweet chili sauce brings a bit of heat to your plate. The sweetness aligns with the orange chicken, while the spicy kick adds an extra dimension. It’s perfect for those who like a little bit of spice with their meal.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Chili Sauce | Sweet, tangy, and spicy. | Adds a spicy kick that complements sweetness. |
3. Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce is a thick, sweet, and savory sauce that pairs beautifully with orange chicken. Its rich flavor can add complexity to the dish, making each bite more interesting.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Hoisin Sauce | Sweet, salty, and slightly spicy. | Adds richness and complexity. |
4. Plum Sauce
Plum sauce offers a fruity sweetness that pairs well with orange chicken. It’s less tangy than orange sauce but provides a mild sweetness that complements the dish without overpowering it.
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Plum Sauce | Fruity, sweet, and mild. | Subtle sweetness enhances the dish. |
What Drinks Go Well with Orange Chicken?
No meal is complete without a refreshing drink. But what should you pair with the bold flavors of orange chicken? Let’s take a look at some top choices.
1. Green Tea
Green tea is a classic choice that pairs beautifully with orange chicken. It’s light, slightly bitter, and helps cleanse your palate between bites. Plus, the subtlety of green tea won’t compete with the strong flavors of the dish.
| Drink | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Green Tea | Light, slightly bitter tea. | Cleanses palate and balances strong flavors. |
2. Jasmine Tea
Jasmine tea, with its floral aroma and light flavor, is another great option. It adds a delicate touch to your meal, making the overall experience more enjoyable.
| Drink | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Jasmine Tea | Floral, aromatic, light tea. | Enhances meal with its delicate aroma. |
3. Ginger Beer
For those who prefer something with a bit of a kick, ginger beer is an excellent choice. The spiciness of ginger beer contrasts nicely with the sweet and tangy orange chicken, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.
| Drink | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Ginger Beer | Spicy, sweet non-alcoholic drink. | Contrasts and complements sweet and tangy flavors. |
4. Sparkling Water
Sometimes, you just need something simple. Sparkling water with a slice of lime or lemon is refreshing and won’t overshadow the star of your meal—orange chicken. The bubbles also help cleanse your palate, keeping each bite as flavorful as the first.
| Drink | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkling Water | Fizzy water with a hint of citrus. | Refreshing and palate-cleansing. |
What Desserts Pair Well with Orange Chicken?
After a flavorful meal, a good dessert is the cherry on top. But with orange chicken’s bold flavors, what desserts should you choose? Let’s explore a few sweet options.
1. Mango Sticky Rice
Mango sticky rice is a popular dessert that combines sweet, ripe mango with coconut-flavored sticky rice. The tropical flavors and creamy texture are a perfect contrast to the tangy orange chicken.
| Dessert | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Mango Sticky Rice | Sweet mango with coconut-flavored sticky rice. | Tropical flavors balance the tanginess. |
2. Almond Cookies
Almond cookies are light, crisp, and slightly sweet, making them a great dessert after a rich meal like orange chicken. They’re not too heavy and offer a pleasant crunch to end your meal.
| Dessert | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Almond Cookies | Light, crisp cookies with almond flavor. | Light and crunchy, perfect after a rich meal. |
3. Fortune Cookies
Fortune cookies are a fun and simple dessert that also adds a bit of entertainment with their fortunes inside. Their light sweetness is just enough to finish off your meal without overwhelming your palate.
| Dessert | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Fortune Cookies | Crisp, sweet cookies with fortunes inside. | Light sweetness ends the meal on a fun note. |
4. Lychee Sorbet
Lychee sorbet offers a refreshing and slightly floral flavor. It’s light and cool, which makes it a great way to cleanse your palate after a flavorful dish like orange chicken.
| Dessert | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Lychee Sorbet | Light, floral, and refreshing sorbet. | Cleanses the palate with its refreshing taste. |
Conclusion
So, what goes well with orange chicken? As it turns out, there are plenty of delicious options! From simple steamed rice to sweet chili sauce and refreshing green tea, there’s no shortage of pairings that can make your orange chicken meal even more enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a quick weeknight meal, these sides, sauces, drinks, and desserts will help you create a well-rounded and memorable dining experience. So, the next time you’re whipping up some orange chicken, you’ll know exactly what to serve with it. Happy cooking!
FAQs
Can I serve orange chicken with noodles instead of rice?
Absolutely! Noodles, like lo mein or rice noodles, are great alternatives to rice. They add a different texture and can also absorb the orange sauce beautifully.
What’s a good vegetarian side dish to serve with orange chicken?
Stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad with a light vinaigrette are excellent vegetarian options. They add freshness and balance to the meal.
Is it better to serve orange chicken with white or brown rice?
Both work well, but white rice has a more neutral flavor, which allows the orange chicken to shine. Brown rice offers a nuttier taste and more fiber, so it’s really up to your preference.
Can I pair orange chicken with a red wine?
While red wine can be a bit heavy for orange chicken, a light red like Pinot Noir could work. However, white wine or even sparkling wine might be a better choice for balancing the flavors.
What’s a good way to make orange chicken spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the orange sauce or serve it with a spicy sauce like sriracha on the side.