Orange Chicken Recipe Healthy

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 04, 2025

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Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe: A Delicious and Guilt-Free Meal

Are you craving that classic takeout orange chicken but trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle? Look no further! This recipe delivers all the vibrant flavor you love without the excess oil and unhealthy ingredients. It's packed with protein and vegetables, making it a satisfying and guilt-free meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your taste buds!

Ingredients:

This recipe serves 4 and emphasizes fresh, wholesome ingredients.

• For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

• For the Orange Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water for thickening)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
  • Zest of one orange

• For Serving (Optional):

  • Cooked brown rice
  • Steamed broccoli or other green vegetables

Instructions:

Let's get cooking! This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary for even cooking. Set aside.

Make the Orange Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency (about 1-2 minutes). Stir in the orange zest.

Combine and Serve:

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
2. Serve immediately over brown rice and steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Tips for a Healthier Orange Chicken:

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and grated ginger add depth of flavor.
• Control sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your preference.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the chicken cooking stage for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Baked alternative: For a lower-fat option, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of pan-frying.

This healthy orange chicken recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this classic dish while making healthier choices. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #HealthyOrangeChicken.