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Easy Orange Chicken

Easy Orange Chicken

Tender chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, citrusy orange sauce, ready in minutes for a healthy, homemade alternative to takeout that the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
For the Orange Sauce:
  • 0.5 cup orange juice
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger grated
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
Garnish (optional):
  • sesame seeds
  • chopped green onions

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Wok
  • Bowl
  • Separate bowl

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. 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.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and orange zest.
  4. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce to coat evenly.
  6. Serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

Cut chicken uniformly for even cooking. Don't overcrowd pan when searing - cook in batches. Whisk cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps. Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level. Serve immediately over rice or with vegetables.