Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Skip takeout and try this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe! This dish is not only packed with flavor but also perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With its paleo and gluten-free attributes, it caters to various dietary needs while satisfying your cravings for something delicious. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and the vibrant taste of orange that shines through every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Twist: This recipe offers a lighter alternative to traditional orange chicken, ensuring you enjoy great taste without the guilt.
• Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can have a complete meal ready to serve, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use different vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your preferences, adding variety to your meals.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish; the sweet and tangy flavors are sure to please everyone at the table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking; just store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: A good sauté pan helps in achieving that perfect sear on the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Using a mixing bowl makes it easy to combine all sauce ingredients uniformly.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula is crucial for scraping down the sides of the pan while cooking sauce.

Ingredients

Skip takeout and try this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe! Paleo, gluten free + delicious – it’s one of the best healthy chicken recipes!

Main 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

Sides

• 4 cups steamed broccoli or green beans
• 2 cups cooked rice

How to Make Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Sides

1. Prepare the green beans or broccoli according to package directions.
2. Cook rice according to its packaging instructions.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken cubes into the pan; cook for about 10 minutes until edges are brown and slightly crispy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. While chicken cooks, combine all sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Once chicken is cooked thoroughly, remove it from the pan and set aside in a clean bowl.
2. Pour sauce mixture into the same sauté pan used for chicken.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

1. Bring sauce mixture to a boil for 15-20 minutes; stir every minute until thickened.
2. The sauce should bubble continuously; it’s ready when it pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Step 6: Finish Up

1. Add cooked chicken back into the sauce; stir well to coat each piece evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Healthy Orange Chicken over steamed vegetables and rice for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Serving your Healthy Orange Chicken is a delightful experience that can enhance the meal’s flavors and presentation. Below are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Over Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and pairs well with the orange sauce.
• Green Beans: Crisp green beans bring a fresh element and vibrant color to the plate.

With Rice

• Jasmine Rice: The soft, fragrant rice perfectly absorbs the tangy orange sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a light and healthy base.

On a Bed of Greens

• Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach creates a refreshing contrast with the warm chicken and sauce.
• Mixed Greens: A colorful mix of lettuce can add texture and nutrients to your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Romaine Lettuce: Use crisp romaine leaves for a fun twist, allowing you to enjoy the chicken in handheld bites.

How to Perfect Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Perfecting your Healthy Orange Chicken involves attention to detail in both cooking and flavor. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and orange juice will enhance the flavors significantly compared to their dried or bottled counterparts.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer; if it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
• Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut evenly for consistent cooking throughout.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust sweetness or saltiness by tasting the sauce before adding it back to the chicken.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving can help retain its juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Orange Chicken enhances both taste and nutrition. Here are some excellent options.

1. Brown Rice: A whole grain option that provides fiber and complements the dish well.
2. Quinoa: This protein-rich grain adds a nutty flavor while boosting overall nutrition.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas stir-fried lightly add crunch and flavor.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the tangy orange sauce delightfully.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumber, sesame oil, and vinegar adds brightness to your meal.
6. Miso Soup: A warm miso soup offers umami flavors that pair nicely with your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce can diminish flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden brown color and check doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Neglecting to thicken the sauce: Forgetting to cook the sauce until it thickens will leave it watery. Stir frequently while boiling to achieve a nice glaze.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using inferior or old ingredients can affect the dish’s overall taste. Always opt for fresh, high-quality items, especially citrus.
• Serving without sides: Serving just chicken can make meals unbalanced. Pair with steamed veggies or rice for a complete healthy meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with tofu or shrimp if you’re looking for alternative proteins.

Is this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! With coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, it’s gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

What should I serve with Healthy Orange Chicken?

It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables like broccoli and green beans.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust it by adding different vegetables or using various proteins according to your tastes. Try making it tonight and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both wholesome and flavorful!