Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further than this fantastic Easy Orange Chicken recipe! This dish is bursting with flavor, combining the tangy zest of oranges with savory chicken for a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more. Best of all, it can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup of orange juice
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions:
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve the orange chicken over cooked rice and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without a lot of fuss.
- Flavorful: The combination of orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and spices creates a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
- Customizable: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste. Add more or less red pepper flakes for spicier or milder flavor, or add additional veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish! The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please everyone at the table.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Easy Orange Chicken recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be made in a flash. With its flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a tasty dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious!
FAQs:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breasts.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time, then cook everything together when you’re ready to eat. This can help save time on busy nights!
Is this recipe spicy?
The amount of red pepper flakes can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
While fresh-squeezed orange juice will provide the best flavor, you can use store-bought orange juice if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftover orange chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.