Best Orange Chicken Recipe – Easy and Delicious

Orange Chicken is a beloved dish that marries the tangy sweetness of oranges with the savory goodness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for those who seek a flavorful yet easy meal prep option. The best part? It’s quick to make, bringing a taste of restaurant-quality dining to your home kitchen. This classic orange chicken meal prep is not only simple, but it’s also a delightful way to manage your weekly meals while indulging in a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken

• Best way to make Orange Chicken at home: Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make once, enjoy all week.
• Bursting with flavor: Sweet, savory, and slightly tangy.
• Healthier than takeout: Control the ingredients and portion sizes.
• Quick and efficient: Only 30 minutes to make!
  

  Ingredients for Orange Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced – lean protein option, or use thighs for a juicier version.
• 1/2 cup orange juice – use fresh oranges for the best flavor.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – for a gluten-free option, substitute with tamari.
• 2 tablespoons honey – natural sweetness, or substitute with agave syrup.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickening agent, with an optional use of arrowroot powder.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups steamed broccoli – adds a touch of green and fiber.
• Cooked rice for serving – serve with brown rice for added nutrients.
  

  How to Make Orange Chicken – Step by Step

   

  Preparing the Sauce

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Add this to the orange juice mixture to help thicken the sauce.
     

     Cooking the Chicken

  3. Heat the Oil: In a pan over medium heat, heat olive oil.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
     

     Final Touches

  5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Pour the orange juice mixture over the chicken in the pan, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly.
  6. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for an additional 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
  7. Serve and Store: Remove from heat and serve the orange chicken over cooked rice, alongside steamed broccoli. Let cool before dividing into meal prep containers for storage.
     

     Cooking Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, coat the chicken pieces in flour before browning.
• Enhance the tangy flavor by adding a tablespoon of rice vinegar.
  

  

  Pro Tips for Making the Best Orange Chicken

• Make it Ahead: Yes, you can make orange chicken ahead of time. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.
• Secret to the Best Orange Chicken: Use fresh oranges for juicing to capture that vibrant zest, elevating the dish’s overall taste.
  

  Best Ways to Serve Orange Chicken

• Serve with steamed white rice or try cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Pair with veggies like sautéed snow peas or bok choy.
• Enjoy with a refreshing drink like iced green tea or sparkling water with a citrus twist.
  

  Nutritional Information for Orange Chicken

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 50g
• Fat: 9g

  This dish is a balanced meal that fits into most diet plans, thanks to its high protein and moderate carb content.

  Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Place portions in suitable containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Best reheated over the stove on low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
  

  4 FAQs for Orange Chicken

  Can I freeze Orange Chicken?
  Yes, orange chicken freezes well. Ensure it’s cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

  What can I use instead of soy sauce in Orange Chicken?
  For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos work as a soy-free alternative.

  Can I use other vegetables with this dish?
  Absolutely, try adding carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for variation.

  How can I make the sauce spicier?
  To add some heat, include red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce mix.

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