Name: Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts (cut into cubes); 1 egg white; 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce; 1 tablespoon orange zest; black pepper; 1/3 cup cornstarch; 1/3 cup avocado oil; 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth; 1 cup fresh orange juice (+ 2 tablespoons zest); 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 4 cloves garlic (grated); 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger; 1/2-1 teaspoon chili flakes; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds; green onions and sesame seeds (for serving)

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Whenever I’m in the mood for something that packs a punch, Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is my go-to dish. The vibrant combination of flavors in this recipe never fails to lift my spirits. Just the thought of tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce makes my taste buds tingle with anticipation. I remember the first time I tried a similar dish at a local Asian restaurant; it was love at first bite! Inspired by that experience, I decided to recreate it at home, and after a few tweaks, I believe I’ve nailed it. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a great way to impress guests during dinner parties or family gatherings. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is sure to steal the spotlight.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Whisk, Large Pot, Skillet

The Charm of This Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken

Flavor Explosion

The marriage of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken creates a culinary experience that is hard to forget. The bright notes of fresh orange juice complement the warmth of chili flakes, making each bite a delightful adventure.

Easy to Prepare

This dish is surprisingly easy to whip up, even for those who might not consider themselves skilled in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.

Versatile Ingredients

The beauty of Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the level of spice, sweetness, or tanginess based on your preferences. This makes it a perfect recipe for families with varying tastes.

Healthy Option

Using fresh ingredients such as orange juice, garlic, and ginger not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. This dish can fit comfortably into a balanced diet while still satisfying those cravings for something delicious and fulfilling.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is an excellent meal prep option! You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat and serve over rice or stir-fried veggies for a quick meal.

Impressive Presentation

Finally, the gorgeous colors of this dish make it visually appealing. The bright orange sauce glistens, and the sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions adds a beautiful finishing touch that will impress anyone at your dinner table.

What to Gather for Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor profile in Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken. Each component plays a significant role in balancing taste and texture. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken, while the combination of fresh orange juice, ginger, and garlic creates a fragrant and delicious sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes: This lean protein is the base of the dish, providing substance and a canvas for absorbing the bold flavors.
1 egg white: It helps create a light coating on the chicken, ensuring a crispy texture when cooked.
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the marinade.
1 tablespoon orange zest: Gives the dish a bright citrus aroma and enhances the orange flavor.
Black pepper: A staple seasoning that adds warmth and complexity.
1/3 cup cornstarch: Used for dredging the chicken, it creates a crispy outer layer when cooked.
1/3 cup avocado oil: A high smoke point oil that’s perfect for frying.
1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth: Provides moisture and additional flavor to the sauce.
1 cup fresh orange juice + 2 tablespoons zest: The heart of the sauce, providing sweetness and acidity.
1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce: For seasoning and enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a tangy element that balances the sweetness.
3 tablespoons honey: A natural sweetener that complements the other flavors.
4 cloves garlic, grated: Imparts a rich, aromatic quality to the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger: Adds warmth and spiciness to the sauce.
1/2-1 teaspoon chili flakes: For those who love a spicy kick!
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds: Used as a garnish, adding crunch and nuttiness.
Green onions and sesame seeds, for serving: Adds freshness and a beautiful presentation.

Step by Step Instructions for Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken

Cooking Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Trust me, the aroma of the cooking chicken mixed with the sweet and spicy sauce is worth it. Let’s get started!

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, egg white, tamari/soy sauce, orange zest, and a dash of black pepper. Toss everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This marinade will infuse flavor into the chicken while keeping it tender.
In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken through the cornstarch, ensuring it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture when we fry the chicken.
In a glass jar, whisk together the chicken broth, orange juice, tamari/soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. This mixture will become the luscious sauce that ties everything together.
Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the battered chicken in batches, cooking until golden brown all around, about five minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of fry. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
To the same skillet, add the grated garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Sauté for one to two minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and becoming fragrant. This step is where the dish starts to come alive!
Pour in the prepared orange sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for three to four minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and develop flavor.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until it’s well coated. Cook for an additional five minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce.
Serve the Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating is key: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for a few hours enhances the flavor significantly.
Oil temperature matters: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that desired crispiness.
Add a veggie boost: Feel free to stir-fry some veggies with the chicken for an even more nutritious meal.
Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Variations to Try

If you’re eager to mix things up with Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken, here are some fun variations to explore:

Different Proteins: You can swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delicious alternative.
Increase the Heat: For spice lovers, add more chili flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers.
Vegetable Additions: Incorporate stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
Citrus Variations: Experiment with different citrus juices like lime or lemon for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Honey Alternatives: Swap honey with maple syrup or agave for a different kind of sweetness.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tamari and cornstarch to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

What Complements This Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken

When serving Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken, consider these delightful pairings to create a well-rounded meal:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli adds nutrition and texture.
Asian Noodle Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the chicken with a crunchy and tangy vibe.
Spring Rolls: These light appetizers make for a perfect starter before diving into the main dish.
Sesame Cucumber Salad: The crispness of cucumbers with sesame dressing complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Occasions: This dish is fantastic for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even casual get-togethers with friends.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days.

FAQ

Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce. It features a wonderful balance of flavors with the freshness of orange juice, the warmth of ginger, and a hint of heat from chili flakes. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of zest in their meals!

Absolutely! To make Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute the tamari with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Additionally, make sure to use gluten-free cornstarch. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors without any gluten concerns.

The spiciness of Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. The recipe includes chili flakes, which add a nice kick, but you can reduce the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, for those who enjoy heat, feel free to add more chili flakes or fresh chili peppers!

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully. For a complete meal, consider adding stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad on the side. You can also serve it with Asian noodle salads or spring rolls for a delightful spread!

Yes! While the recipe features chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as different proteins may cook at different rates.

Conclusion

Spicy Orange Sesame Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite. The blend of sweet and spicy flavors, coupled with the crispy chicken, makes it truly special. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal—it’s sure to become a favorite!