What To Know
- You can use a combination of orange and lemon juice or try using grapefruit juice for a slightly tart flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Whether you’re looking for a healthier weeknight meal or a flavorful addition to your next party, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Orange chicken is a classic dish that combines the vibrant flavors of orange and chicken, creating a delightful culinary experience. However, traditional orange chicken recipes often involve deep-frying, adding unnecessary calories and fat. This recipe offers a healthier alternative, delivering the same delicious taste without the guilt.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, orange juice, orange zest, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken mixture and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, water, cornstarch, and cold water. Whisk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
- Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the orange chicken to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional orange zest, green onions, or sesame seeds, if desired.
- Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite sides.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh orange juice: Fresh orange juice provides a brighter and more flavorful taste compared to store-bought juice.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch to the sauce mixture. For a thinner sauce, add more water.
- Experiment with different citrus fruits: You can use a combination of orange and lemon juice or try using grapefruit juice for a slightly tart flavor.
- Serve immediately: Orange chicken is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Veggie-Packed Orange Chicken: Add some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli 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 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Health Benefits of Orange Chicken Recipe Not Fried:
- Reduced Calories: This recipe uses olive oil instead of deep-frying, significantly reducing the calorie content.
- Lower Fat Content: The use of olive oil and lean chicken makes this dish lower in fat compared to traditional fried orange chicken.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Orange juice is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and folate, while chicken provides protein, iron, and zinc.
- Improved Heart Health: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
“Wrap-Up”: A Healthier Twist on a Classic
This orange chicken recipe not fried offers a healthier alternative to the classic dish, without compromising on taste. By using healthier cooking methods and ingredients, you can enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of orange chicken without the added calories and fat. Whether you’re looking for a healthier weeknight meal or a flavorful addition to your next party, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and may provide a richer flavor.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, add more cornstarch to the sauce mixture. Start with 1 tablespoon and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I use store-bought orange juice?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought orange juice. However, fresh orange juice will provide a brighter and more flavorful taste.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch. You can also use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat in the microwave until heated through.
