Broke But Craving: The $20 Takeout Hack That’ll Make Your Wallet (and Taste Buds) Happy

Ever had that moment when you’re scrolling through food delivery apps, salivating over your favorite takeout, only to remember your bank account is giving you the side-eye?

Yeah, me too. But fear not, fellow broke foodies!

I’ve got a copycat recipe that’ll satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet.

The Secret to Crispy, Irresistible Orange Chicken

Let’s talk about the star of the show – the chicken.
The key to getting that perfect crispy exterior? Cornstarch.
It’s like fairy dust for your chicken, turning it into crispy, golden nuggets of deliciousness.

Ingredients

For the chicken:
– 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the sauce:
– 3/4 cup orange juice (no pulp)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Zest from 1 orange
– 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prep is key! Cut your chicken, season with salt and pepper, and toss with cornstarch until coated.

Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the pan is HOT, add half the chicken. Cook for 4 minutes, flip, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Repeat with the second batch, adding more oil if needed.

Turn off the heat and pour in the sauce. It’ll bubble and thicken quickly.

Add the chicken back in and toss to coat.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.

The $20 Saving Secret

Here’s where the magic happens. This recipe not only tastes better than takeout, but it’ll also save you a cool $20.

How?

By using pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you’re cutting out delivery fees, tipping, and inflated restaurant prices.
Plus, you’ll likely have leftovers for lunch tomorrow. Cha-ching!

Pro Tips for Takeout-Level Results

1. Freeze your ginger for easy grating and longer shelf life.
2. Use a splatter guard to minimize cleanup (your future self will thank you).
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. Space is the key to crispiness!
4. Prep everything before you start cooking. This dish moves fast once you get going.

So there you have it, folks. A wallet-friendly, taste bud-approved copycat that’ll make you forget all about that takeout craving.

Who needs delivery when you can be a kitchen hero?
Now go forth and conquer that orange chicken!