Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
cut into cubes
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- black pepper
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/3 cup avocado oil
- 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh orange juice + 2 tablespoons zest
- 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic
grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1/2-1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- green onions and sesame seeds
for serving
Directions
- 1
1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, egg white, tamari/soy sauce, orange zest, and pepper. Toss well to coat. In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch.2. Dredge the chicken through the cornstarch to coat. 3. In a glass jar, whisk together the broth, orange juice, tamari/soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. 4. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, working in batches, cook until golden all around, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet. 5. To the skillet, add the garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Cook 1-2 minutes. Pour in the orange sauce. Bring to a boil, boil 3-4 minutes, then add the chicken. Toss with the sauce and cook until the sauce thickens around the chicken, about 5 minutes. 6. Serve the chicken and sauce over steamed rice with sesame seeds and green onions.
Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 308 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving the vibrant, sticky-sweet, and savory flavors of your favorite takeout but want to make it fresh at home? This Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken delivers a satisfying experience with every bite, bringing those beloved tastes directly to your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by balancing bright citrus notes with a deep, savory foundation and a customizable kick of heat. The clever use of an egg white and cornstarch coating on the chicken helps create a wonderfully tender texture that readily absorbs the flavorful orange sesame sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in deliciousness. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
What to Expect
Prepare for a delightful combination of textures and flavors. You'll find tender, succulent pieces of chicken enveloped in a glossy, rich sauce that boasts the tangy brightness of fresh orange juice and zest, complemented by the warmth of ginger and garlic. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, perfectly balanced by the tamari and rice vinegar, while chili flakes provide a gentle, adaptable spice. Finished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions, it's a dish that truly excites the palate.
Customization & Variations
This Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is easy to adapt to your preferences. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chili flakes, from a subtle warmth to a more fiery punch. If tamari isn't on hand, feel free to use low sodium soy sauce, as both work beautifully to build the sauce's savory depth. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a sprinkle of fresh cilantro along with the green onions when serving.
Serving & Context
This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to share with friends. Serve your Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, brown rice, or alongside a simple stir-fried vegetable medley for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish generously with additional toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh finish.