What To Know
- Serve the orange chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Substitute half of the honey with maple syrup and add a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more savory flavor.
Orange chicken is a classic takeout dish that is loved by many for its sweet and savory flavor. However, traditional orange chicken recipes often involve deep-frying the chicken, which can make it high in calories and fat. This orange chicken recipe no deep fry offers a healthier alternative that is just as delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce.
- Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
Tips for a Perfect Orange Chicken Recipe No Deep Fry:
- Use a variety of vegetables to add more flavor and nutrients to the dish. Some good options include bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snow peas.
- Adjust the amount of honey and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- For a crispy texture, you can pan-fry the chicken instead of baking it. Just make sure to use a non-stick skillet and cook the chicken over medium heat until golden brown.
- Serve the orange chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Health Benefits of Orange Chicken Recipe No Deep Fry:
- Reduced Fat and Calories: By eliminating the deep-frying step, this orange chicken recipe is significantly lower in fat and calories than traditional recipes. This makes it a healthier choice for those watching their weight or managing their cholesterol levels.
- Increased Fiber: The addition of vegetables to the recipe provides an excellent source of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote a feeling of fullness, which may aid in weight management.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Orange chicken is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.
Variations of Orange Chicken Recipe No Deep Fry:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Substitute half of the honey with maple syrup and add a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweeter and more savory flavor.
- Orange Chicken with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots, to the skillet along with the chicken.
- Baked Orange Chicken: Instead of pan-frying the chicken, bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions for Orange Chicken Recipe No Deep Fry:
- Steamed Rice or Noodles: Serve the orange chicken over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a classic takeout-style meal.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair the orange chicken with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a healthier and more balanced meal.
- Spring Rolls: Serve the orange chicken with spring rolls as an appetizer or side dish.
- Fried Wontons: Add some crispy fried wontons to the plate for an extra crunchy element.
“Not-So-Conclusion”: A Farewell Note on Orange Chicken Recipe No Deep Fry
This orange chicken recipe no deep fry is a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. With its sweet and savory flavor, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for takeout without compromising your health. Experiment with different variations and serving suggestions to find your perfect orange chicken combination. Enjoy!
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and sauce according to the instructions and then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce together until warmed through.
Q: What are some other healthy side dishes that I can serve with orange chicken?
A: Some healthy side dishes that you can serve with orange chicken include steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, brown rice, or a simple green salad.
