Healthy Orange Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A healthier twist on takeout with no deep frying.
• Naturally sweetened with fresh orange juice and zest.
• Quick and easy to prepare, making it great for busy nights.
• Balanced flavors: sweet, tangy, savory, and slightly spicy.
• Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 teaspoons freshly grated orange zest
½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice, approximately 2 medium oranges
⅓ cup brown sugar, tightly packed
2 tablespoons Asian white rice vinegar
3 tablespoons tamari sauce
2 teaspoons Sriracha
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons cornstarch, fully dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
2 teaspoons olive or canola oil
1 ½ lbs boneless/skinless chicken thighs
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
2 stalks scallions, thinly sliced
Optional: Cooked rice for serving

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange zest, orange juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, tamari, Sriracha, ground ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil.
3. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, season lightly with salt, and add them to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
4. Pour the orange sauce mixture over the chicken and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with scallions, and serve with rice if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken thighs for chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Replace tamari with soy sauce if gluten isn’t a concern.
• For extra heat, add more Sriracha or red pepper flakes.
• Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
• Try serving with cauliflower rice or stir-fried vegetables for a low-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish can also be reheated in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook the chicken fresh and combine when ready to serve.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch. Choose a variety with no added sugar.

What can I use instead of tamari?

Soy sauce or coconut aminos are good alternatives.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-cooking?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20 minutes, then toss with the sauce on the stovetop.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the Sriracha or add chili flakes to the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use tamari instead of soy sauce, it is gluten-free.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely, but keep an eye on the cooking time since breasts cook faster and can dry out.

What side dishes go well with orange chicken?

Steamed broccoli, snap peas, bok choy, or jasmine rice all pair nicely.

Can I freeze Healthy Orange Chicken?

Yes, once cooled, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a tablespoon of water or chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion

Healthy Orange Chicken is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a takeout-inspired meal at home. With its vibrant citrus sauce, tender chicken, and quick cooking time, it’s a dish you’ll come back to often. Whether served over rice or with a side of vegetables, it’s a wholesome and delicious dinner option the whole family will enjoy.

Print