Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Skip takeout & try this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe! This dish is not only paleo and gluten-free, but it’s also packed with flavor, making it a delightful choice for family dinners or meal prep. It features tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that will impress your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this healthy orange chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe can be made in under an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice, honey, and ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s both sweet and savory.
• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the flavors of takeout without the guilt. This recipe uses wholesome ingredients and avoids unhealthy additives.
• Versatile: Perfect for serving with rice or over steamed veggies, you can customize it to fit your dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

For this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you will need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing room for the sauce to bubble and thicken.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all the sauce ingredients without mess.
• Spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the pan to ensure no delicious sauce goes to waste.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in 1 inch cubes)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
– 2 cups orange juice
– 1/4 cup coconut aminos
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 tablespoon orange zest
– 4 cups steamed broccoli or green beans
– 2 cups cooked rice

How to Make Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook Rice and Vegetables

Start by cooking your green beans and rice according to their package directions. Set them aside once done.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes to the pan:
1. Cook for about 10 minutes until the edges are brown and slightly crispy.
2. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While your chicken cooks, mix together all ingredients for the sauce in a bowl:
1. Combine orange juice, coconut aminos, honey, garlic powder, black pepper, grated ginger, and orange zest.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through:
1. Remove it from the pan and set aside in a clean bowl.
2. Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan used for cooking chicken.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Bring the sauce mixture to a boil:
1. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes while stirring frequently until it starts to thicken.
2. You’ll know it’s ready when it pulls away from the sides of the pan when scraped with a spatula.

Step 6: Finish Up

After thickening:
1. Add your cooked chicken back into the pot.
2. Stir well to coat every piece of chicken with that delicious sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve this vibrant dish over steamed vegetables and rice for a wholesome meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your healthy orange chicken!

How to Serve Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Serving your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile and appealing for any occasion.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli or Green Beans: These vegetables add color and nutrients, complementing the orange chicken perfectly.
• Carrot Ribbons: Lightly sautéed carrot ribbons offer a sweet crunch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice, it absorbs the sauce well and balances the dish’s flavors.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice provides more fiber and a nuttier taste.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle these on top for an added burst of freshness.
• Cilantro Leaves: A few cilantro leaves can introduce a delightful herbal note that brightens the meal.

How to Perfect Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and orange juice will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly.
• Adjust Sweetness: Customize the honey level to suit your taste; some may prefer it sweeter or less so.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken is cooked through for safety, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Allow the sauce to boil until thickened; this ensures it clings beautifully to the chicken without being watery.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious alternative to rice that adds a lovely texture and nutty flavor.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up the sauce while adding volume to your plate.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a crisp element that complements the sweetness of the chicken.
4. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy and naturally sweet, this mash offers a delicious contrast to the savory dish.
5. Zucchini Noodles: A fun twist, zucchini noodles provide a fresh texture and absorb flavors well.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These can be roasted until crispy, adding depth and crunch alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Using overcooked chicken: Overcooking chicken can lead to dryness. Cook it just until it reaches 165°F and remains juicy.
• Skipping the sauce thickening: If you don’t let the sauce thicken properly, it may result in a watery dish. Allow it to boil and reduce until it coats the back of a spoon.
• Not seasoning adequately: Neglecting to season the chicken can make your dish bland. Use salt and pepper generously for better flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality orange juice or oils can compromise taste. Opt for fresh-squeezed juice and high-quality oils for the best results.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for crispy edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot, usually around 2-4 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe.

Can I use other juices?

You can substitute orange juice with grapefruit or pineapple juice for a different flavor profile while keeping it healthy.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the sauce for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice preference.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers complement the flavors beautifully and add nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give it a try today!