Healthy Orange Chicken
A delightful twist on a classic dish, featuring lean chicken breast and a zesty orange sauce for a nourishing and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Use lean chicken breast for a healthier option.
- 1/2 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed is preferred for better flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup Use honey for sweetness or maple syrup for a vegan option.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Adds tanginess to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch For thickening the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- Green onions, for garnish Chopped.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
Sauce Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger until smooth.
Chicken Preparation
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with a splash of water to create a smooth slurry.
- Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of cooking oil.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking
- Pour the prepared orange sauce over the cooked chicken and lower the heat.
- Let it simmer for around 5 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for another minute or so, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps with additional veggies.
Notes
For best results, marinate the chicken in the orange juice mixture for 30 minutes before cooking. Customize sweetness with honey or maple syrup and add red pepper flakes for extra heat.