Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Skip takeout & try this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with flavor and health benefits. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week, it offers a lighter twist on a classic favorite. With its vibrant orange sauce and tender chicken, this recipe stands out as a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of orange juice, honey, and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Serving: Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and natural sweeteners, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the tasty orange sauce, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some basics you’ll need to prepare this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while allowing you to simmer the sauce without splatter.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients for the sauce before adding it to the pan.
• Spatula: Helps in stirring the sauce and ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of ingredients for consistency in flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this delicious Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in 1 inch cubes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

For the Sauce

• 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

For Serving

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

How to Make Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Sides

Cook your green beans or broccoli along with rice according to package directions. This ensures everything is ready at the same time.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

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

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While your chicken cooks:
1. In a mixing bowl, stir together all sauce ingredients until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

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

Step 5: Thicken Your Sauce

Bring the sauce mixture to a boil over medium heat:
1. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens.
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 Your Dish

Add cooked chicken back into the pot:
1. Stir well to coat all pieces with that delicious thickened sauce.

Step 7: Serve Your Meal

Finally:
1. Dish out servings over steamed vegetables and rice. Enjoy your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe!

How to Serve Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

This Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe is delicious and versatile. It can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy crunch and vibrant color.

Over Rice

• Serve the orange chicken over a bed of cooked rice. This will soak up the flavorful sauce and make for a filling meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps. The fresh crunch of lettuce pairs nicely with the sweet and savory chicken.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Combine the orange chicken with grains like quinoa or brown rice, topped with fresh vegetables and drizzled with extra sauce for added flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Pair it with a light salad made of mixed greens, cucumbers, and carrots, dressed lightly in vinaigrette for a refreshing counterbalance.

How to Perfect Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

To make the most out of your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate the flavor profile compared to dried versions.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken sit in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking will infuse more flavor into the meat.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your taste preferences; you can use less if you prefer a less sweet dish.

• Cook in batches: If cooking for larger groups, consider cooking the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and prevent overcrowding in the pan.

• Thicken sauce properly: Allow sufficient time for the sauce to thicken; it should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Pairing your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe with complementary sides can enhance your meal’s overall taste. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Brown Rice
   A wholesome option that adds fiber and complements the orange flavors beautifully.

2. Quinoa
   A protein-rich grain that offers a nutty flavor and fluffy texture, perfect alongside the chicken.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Crisp-tender broccoli adds nutrients and balances out the dish’s sweetness.

4. Cauliflower Rice
   A lower-carb alternative that absorbs sauces well while adding volume to your plate.

5. Roasted Asparagus
   This simple yet elegant side adds a touch of sophistication and pairs well with citrus flavors.

6. Mixed Green Salad
   Light and refreshing, this salad can help cleanse your palate between bites of orange chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can greatly enhance the outcome of your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken adds more flavor. For best results, let it sit in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using low-quality juice: Opt for fresh-squeezed orange juice rather than bottled. Fresh juice enhances the taste and nutrition of your dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Cook until just done, and remember that it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Depending on the brand of coconut aminos and orange juice, you may need to adjust honey levels. Start with less and add more if needed.
• Ignoring vegetable options: While broccoli and green beans are great, feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
• Best consumed within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe:

How can I make this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking. Adjust based on your spice preference.

Can I use different meats?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or beef if you’re looking for alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with healthy orange chicken?

Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa with a side of vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a complete meal.

Is this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily, making it ideal for busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe is not only tasty but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try for a healthier take on a classic dish!