Healthy Orange Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic
minced
- 1 tsp ginger
minced
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
optional
- 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 3 garlic cloves
minced
- 1 tsp ginger
minced
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp green onions chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice
to serve
- 1/2 cup steamed broccoli
to serve
Directions
- 1
In a medium-size bowl combine all the ingredients under the “to marinate chicken” section and mix it thoroughly and marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes.
- 2
In a separate bowl combine orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, chili garlic sauce, cornstarch, orange zest, garlic, ginger, red chili flakes, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk it until the sugar dissolves and keep the sauce mixture aside.
- 3
Heat a wide skillet; add oil and once the oil is heated add the marinated chicken pieces to it.
- 4
Cook on a medium flame for 4-5 minutes and flip the chicken pieces to the next side and cook for 5-6 more minutes until the chicken is cooked perfectly.
- 5
Stir in the prepared sauce mixture to the skillet and cook the chicken along with the sauce uncovered for 5 minutes.
- 6
The sauce will start to thicken and everything comes together. In this stage add the sesame seeds and green onions.
- 7
Serve the orange chicken along with rice and veggies.
Healthy Orange Chicken
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About this Recipe
Craving the vibrant, sweet, and savory flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout orange chicken, but without the guilt? This Healthy Orange Chicken recipe delivers all the deliciousness you love in just 30 minutes, crafted to be good for you too.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by capturing the authentic taste of orange chicken while significantly reducing the extra calories and high sodium levels often found in restaurant versions. It focuses on fresh, balanced ingredients, ensuring you can savor every bite knowing it's a wholesome choice. The careful balance of citrus, savory soy, and a hint of sweetness creates a deeply satisfying dish without compromise.
What to Expect
You'll be greeted with tender, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a glossy, aromatic sauce that perfectly balances bright orange zest and juice with savory soy and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. The sauce has a lovely consistency, clinging to the chicken beautifully. Expect a delightful interplay of flavors—a little tangy, a little sweet, and wonderfully savory, with a subtle warmth if you choose to add the chili garlic sauce. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is genuinely a healthier option, bringing a taste of your favorite takeout right to your home.
Customization & Variations
For those who prefer less heat, the chili garlic sauce is entirely optional, allowing you to tailor the spice level to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of a kick, a touch more red chili flakes can be added. While fresh orange juice is recommended for the brightest flavor, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar to make the sauce more or less sweet according to your taste.
Serving & Context
This Healthy Orange Chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time but craving something flavorful and satisfying. Serve it generously over a bed of fluffy cooked rice and alongside a vibrant portion of steamed broccoli to complete a balanced and delicious meal.