Introducing Easy Orange Chicken, your new weeknight hero! Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a vibrant, citrusy sauce that’s ready in minutes. This isn’t just fast food; it’s good food. We’re talking healthy, homemade goodness that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. As a busy parent, I know how hard it is to get a nutritious meal on the table. Easy Orange Chicken saves the day, offering a flavor explosion that the whole family will love, without the guilt.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother used to make an elaborate Orange Chicken dish that took hours. It was her Sunday special, a celebration of flavors that always brought the family together. But life got busier, and those long Sunday dinners became less frequent. I desperately wanted to recreate that same magic, but with a schedule that demanded speed and simplicity. That’s how Easy Orange Chicken was born – a tribute to Grandma’s love, packed into a quick and easy weeknight meal. Every bite brings back those cherished memories, and now I can share them with my own family, any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Garnish (optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add half of the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining oil and chicken.
- Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and orange zest.
- Combine and simmer: Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add chicken and coat: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Expert Tips for Best Results
To achieve the best results with your Easy Orange Chicken, there are a few key steps to consider. First, ensure your chicken is uniformly cut to guarantee even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Working in batches ensures each piece gets properly browned, enhancing the flavor and texture. For the sauce, whisk the cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps. Keep stirring the sauce constantly as it simmers to avoid burning and ensure a smooth, glossy finish. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference for spice. Freshly grated orange zest will truly brighten the flavors of the dish. And finally, serving the orange chicken immediately after preparation ensures it retains its crispiness. With these simple tips, your Easy Orange Chicken will be a guaranteed success!
Serving Suggestions
Easy Orange Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it over steamed rice (white, brown, or jasmine) for a classic, comforting meal. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works wonderfully. Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add extra nutrients and a satisfying crunch. A simple side of steamed edamame or a fresh cucumber salad provides a light and refreshing complement. You could also serve it with noodles, such as lo mein or chow mein, to create a heartier dish. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added visual appeal and flavor. For a restaurant-style experience, consider serving it with wonton strips or egg rolls.
Conclusion
Easy Orange Chicken delivers a delicious and satisfying meal, bringing the vibrant flavors of takeout right into your kitchen without the fuss. It’s a quick, healthy, and customizable dish, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the satisfying taste of orange chicken without compromising your time or health. The combination of tender chicken and tangy, citrusy sauce will surely be a hit, making it a staple in your meal rotation.
Easy Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add half of the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining oil and chicken.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and orange zest.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Notes
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