Ep 127. Richard Blais' Orange Chicken + Rach's Butter Chicken

Rachael Ray's cooking-talk show has been ongoing for 17 seasons and in the 127th episode, celebrity chef Richard Blais joins in to cook his version of orange chicken while Rachael makes her famous butter chicken recipe.

Richard Blais is no stranger to innovation in the kitchen, and in this episode, he shares his own spin on orange chicken. Instead of deep frying chicken in a batter and drowning it in a sugary sauce, Blais opts for baking strips of chicken that have been marinated in a flavorful orange sauce. The sauce is made of freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey, all mixed together to create a balance of sweet, salty, and citrusy flavors. The chicken strips are laid out on a baking tray and roasted in the oven until they're golden brown and crispy. Richard Blais also spices things up by adding a pinch of chili to the marinade, which creates a subtle heat that pairs well with the sweet tang of the orange.

Rachael Ray may not be known for her Asian-inspired dishes, but she has a recipe for butter chicken that will definitely impress. This dish originally hails from India and is a favorite in many parts of the world. Rachael starts by browning chicken breast in a pan until it's golden brown on the outside but tender and juicy inside. The chicken is then added to a simmering sauce made of butter, onions, garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, cream, and a blend of spices such as garam masala, cumin, coriander, and paprika. The sauce is cooked until it's thick and creamy, and the chicken is fully cooked through. To finish off the dish, Rachael adds a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serves it over a bed of fluffy basmati rice.

Between Rachael Ray's butter chicken and Richard Blais' orange chicken, there's something for everyone. Those seeking a sweet and tangy dish with a bit of heat will love Blais' take on orange chicken, while those looking for something more comforting can't go wrong with Rachael's butter chicken. The two dishes are completely different in flavor profile and cooking style, but they're both equally satisfying and delicious. The episode offers viewers a chance to learn from two experts in the culinary field and try their hands at making unique and flavorful dishes from around the world. It's another example of why Rachael Ray's show has been so successful for nearly two decades - it offers both entertainment and education in equal measures.