Description
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Feel free to swap chicken breast for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option loaded with protein…
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (for a healthier coating)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3–4 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (to enhance the citrus flavor)
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a natural sweetness)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (for a tangy kick)
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha (optional, for added heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, sliced (adds freshness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for crunch and presentation)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Start by collecting all necessary ingredients. You’ll need chicken breast, orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and corn starch. Don’t forget to have some sesame oil and broccoli for added nutrition!
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect texture.
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, orange juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Allow this mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Marinating intensively flavors the chicken.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of orange juice, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of corn starch. This mixture will create a thick, luscious sauce once cooked.
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, allowing them to sear for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Lower the heat and pour the mixed sauce over the chicken, stirring well to coat each piece thoroughly. Simmer on low for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken properly.
Add fresh broccoli to the pan and cover with a lid. Let it steam for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. This step boosts the dish’s nutrients while adding vibrant color.
Once everything is cooked and the sauce is rich and sticky, remove the skillet from heat. Plate the Healthy Orange Chicken and broccoli, garnishing with sesame seeds if desired. Serve it hot over brown rice for a complete meal.
Notes
Variations to Spice Up Your Orange Chicken: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your dish! Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. You can also experiment with different spices, such as red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or sesame seeds for added crunch. If you prefer a saucier dish, simply double the sauce recipe and serve over whole-grain rice or quinoa. This approach will give you a heartier meal that’s still on the healthier side.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: Lunch & Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 257kcal
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 1219mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 19
- Fiber: 73mg
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 73mg