Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Skip takeout and try this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe! This dish is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into a paleo and gluten-free diet. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, it offers a lighter twist on a classic favorite. With vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe stands out as one of the best healthy chicken recipes you can make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of orange juice, honey, and coconut aminos creates a rich and tangy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Options: Enjoy it with steamed vegetables, over rice, or even as a wrap filling.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Lower in calories compared to traditional orange chicken while being high in protein.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.

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Tools and Preparation

To whip up this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sauté pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sauté pan: Allows you to cook the chicken evenly while giving enough surface area for the sauce to thicken.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all your sauce ingredients without any mess.
• Spatula: Great for stirring the sauce and ensuring nothing sticks to the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in ingredient measurements ensures balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Skip takeout and try this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe! Paleo, gluten free + delicious – it’s one of the best healthy chicken recipes!

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in 1 inch cubes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

For the Sauce

• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup coconut aminos
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 tablespoon orange zest

For Serving

• 4 cups steamed broccoli or green beans
• 2 cups cooked rice

How to Make Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Cook Rice and Vegetables

Start by cooking your green beans and rice according to package directions. This will ensure everything is ready at the same time.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken

In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
1. Add the cubed chicken to the pan.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until the edges are brown and slightly crispy.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken cooks:
1. In a mixing bowl, stir together all ingredients for the sauce until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked:
1. Remove it from the pan and set aside in a clean bowl.
2. Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan you used for cooking chicken.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Bring the sauce mixture to a boil:
1. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring every minute or so until it starts to thicken.
2. You’ll know it’s ready when you scrape the pan with a spatula, and the sauce pulls away from it while bubbling.

Step 6: Add Chicken Back In

Once thickened:
1. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot.
2. Stir well to coat all pieces in that delicious sauce.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve your Healthy Orange Chicken over steamed vegetables and rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Serving your Healthy Orange Chicken can make a significant difference in flavor and presentation. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli or Green Beans: These veggies add a fresh crunch and vibrant color, making your plate visually appealing.

Over Rice

• Brown Rice: A wholesome pairing that provides fiber and nutrients, complementing the savory orange chicken nicely.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, this rice alternative absorbs the sauce well while keeping it healthy.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps for a light meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa Bowl: This protein-packed grain adds texture and is an excellent base for the orange chicken.

How to Perfect Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

To ensure that your Healthy Orange Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest will give your dish the best flavor profile.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook chicken until golden brown but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
• Marinate Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Orange Chicken enhances the meal’s overall taste. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that complements the flavors well.
2. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste balances the sweetness of the orange chicken beautifully.
3. Sautéed Bok Choy: Quick to prepare, bok choy adds a mild crunch and pairs perfectly with Asian-inspired dishes.
4. Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil gives a crunchy contrast to the chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries provide a sweet touch that works well with savory dishes.
6. Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this rice adds an exotic flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for.

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take a few minutes to let the chicken soak in the sauce before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a juicy texture by checking doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken, it may be too watery. Stir occasionally and monitor its thickness as it cooks.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can diminish flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken and produce for the best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Everyone’s taste is different. Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for better tracking.

Reheating Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe that might help you out.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish earlier in the day and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This healthy orange chicken is perfect for meal prep; just store it in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners.

What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a natural sweetener alternative if you prefer.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce mixture while cooking.

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots based on what you have available.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or tweak the sweetness. Try making this dish today, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s both delicious and nutritious!