Zesty Chinese Orange Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender, crispy chicken pieces with a tangy and slightly sweet orange sauce. Perfectly balanced with hints of garlic, ginger, and a touch of heat, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special treat. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to make the sauce.
- In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken pieces. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Pour the prepared orange sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat evenly.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the orange chicken over rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Option: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a spicier version.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian take on this dish.
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added texture and flavor.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the sodium content of the dish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover Zesty Chinese Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken before cooking. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the orange sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- What can I serve this dish with besides rice? This dish pairs well with noodles, steamed vegetables, or even quinoa for a lighter alternative.
- Can I use bottled orange juice? Yes, bottled orange juice works fine, though fresh-squeezed juice will add more vibrant flavor.
- Can I make this dish spicier? Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste to increase the heat.
- Can I use a different type of chicken? You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure that the cornstarch is gluten-free.
- Can I make the chicken crispy? Yes, you can lightly coat the chicken in cornstarch and pan-fry it for a crispy texture before adding the sauce.
- Can I make this dish in advance? While the chicken can be cooked ahead of time, it’s best to make the sauce fresh for the best texture.
- Can I freeze this dish? Freezing the chicken in the sauce is not recommended as it may change the texture of the sauce. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and reheat with fresh sauce.
Conclusion
Zesty Chinese Orange Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. The combination of sweet orange juice, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner. Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch!