Unlock The Flavorful Delight Of Orange Chicken Recipe Minus The Breading: A Healthier Alternative
What To Know
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the simmering sauce and cook until thickened.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
Craving that lip-smacking, tangy-sweet orange chicken without the guilt of deep-frying? Look no further! This orange chicken recipe not breaded offers a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Get ready to indulge in a scrumptious dish that’s crispy, succulent, and bursting with citrusy goodness.
Why Choose Breaded Orange Chicken?
Traditional orange chicken is often coated in a thick layer of breading, which adds extra calories and fat. This can be a concern for those watching their weight or avoiding fried foods. Our breaded-free version eliminates the need for breading, resulting in a healthier and lighter dish without sacrificing taste.
Benefits of This Orange Chicken Recipe
- Lower in Calories: By eliminating the breading, this recipe significantly reduces the calorie count compared to traditional orange chicken.
- Healthier Fat Content: This recipe uses olive oil instead of deep-frying, resulting in a healthier fat profile with monounsaturated fats.
- Crispy Texture: Even without breading, this recipe achieves a crispy texture through a simple yet effective cooking technique.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is incredibly user-friendly, requiring minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken to the saucepan with the orange sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds (optional). Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Tips for a Perfect Orange Chicken
- Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor for the sauce. If using store-bought juice, choose 100% orange juice without added sugar.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the simmering sauce and cook until thickened.
- Serve Immediately: Orange chicken is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan. The crispy texture tends to soften over time.
- Experiment with Different Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to the sauce for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the finished dish for an extra nutty flavor.
- Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
No-Breaded Orange Chicken: A Healthier Alternative
This orange chicken recipe not breaded offers a healthier and lighter alternative to the classic dish. By eliminating the breading, you can enjoy a crispy, flavorful orange chicken without the added calories and fat. Experiment with different variations and enjoy this guilt-free indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in this recipe. They will take a few minutes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What can I serve with orange chicken?
A: Orange chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Q: How do I store leftover orange chicken?
A: Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
