Skinny Orange Chicken

I love nothing more than whipping up a dish that feels indulgent yet is healthy at the same time. That’s why the Skinny Orange Chicken has become one of my go-to recipes. It all started on a busy weeknight when I was craving something flavorful but didn’t want to compromise my healthy eating goals. With a few fresh ingredients and a zest of creativity, I found myself creating a dish that was not just light but also bursting with orange goodness. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with a tangy sauce has become a family favorite, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

What to Buy for Skinny Orange Chicken

When creating the Skinny Orange Chicken, the ingredients are as important as the cooking process itself. I’ve handpicked each component to ensure they complement each other beautifully. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements makes this dish a standout. The key players include the tender chicken, fresh orange juice, and aromatic garlic.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly tender and ideal for stir-frying. Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Adds a subtle sweetness and healthy fat for cooking.
• 1/4 cup chicken stock: Enhances the flavor of the sauce, making it rich and savory.
• 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup: Natural sweeteners that balance the tanginess of the orange.
• 2 cloves garlic: Provides a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor, giving the dish a vibrant taste.
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice: The star of the show, bringing a fresh, tangy flavor.
• 3 tablespoons coconut aminos: A soy sauce alternative that adds umami without the gluten.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce: Adds a delightful kick to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides warmth and complements the sweetness.
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes: A little heat to elevate the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: Optional garnish that adds a nutty touch.
• Broccoli: A great side to serve along the chicken, adding color and nutrition.

Step by Step Guide for Skinny Orange Chicken

Cooking the Skinny Orange Chicken is a straightforward and rewarding experience. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. You’ll find that each step builds on the last to create a mouthwatering meal.

1. Start by melting coconut oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. It should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color. Chicken pieces should be added next. Cook them until they are brown and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them and give them a gentle stir every couple of minutes.

2. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to rest, maintaining its juiciness. You’ll notice the pan is left with some flavorful drippings; we’ll use that to build our sauce.

3. In a separate bowl, combine chicken stock, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, orange zest, fresh orange juice, coconut aminos, Sriracha sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk it all together until well blended. You’ll love how fragrant this mixture is!

4. Pour the sauce mixture into the heated skillet where you cooked the chicken. Turn the heat down to low. The goal now is to let the sauce simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

5. Keep stirring the sauce often. You’ll want to watch for it to reduce and coat the back of a wooden spoon, which can take about 5 to 7 minutes. The aroma in your kitchen will be simply amazing, making it hard to resist tasting it!

6. When the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour it over the cooked chicken pieces, ensuring they’re nicely coated. This is where the magic happens—the sauce clings to the chicken and makes each bite divine!

7. To serve, prepare a bed of broccoli on each plate. Spoon the glazed chicken over the broccoli, letting the sauce drizzle down. For an extra touch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for garnish, if desired. This adds a little crunch and a beautiful finish.

8. Gather everyone around the table, and enjoy the Skinny Orange Chicken warm. You’ll notice how quickly it disappears, and I bet you’ll be asked to make it again soon!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make the most of your Skinny Orange Chicken, here are some pro tips and tweaks that will elevate your cooking experience. These suggestions are designed to help you achieve the best results while allowing for some personal flair!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked Skinny Orange Chicken for up to two months. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce, or enjoy it over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of Sriracha sauce or red pepper flakes based on your preference.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.

What Goes Well With This Skinny Orange Chicken

The Skinny Orange Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and can be enjoyed on numerous occasions. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• Rice: Serve it over steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the zesty sauce.
• Quinoa: A healthy alternative to rice that adds a nutty flavor and extra protein.
• Mixed Vegetables: Sautéed or steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers make a colorful and nutritious side.
• Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors of the Skinny Orange Chicken perfectly.
• Casual Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Meal Prep: The Skinny Orange Chicken is ideal for meal prepping – make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy throughout.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Skinny Orange Chicken is not just a healthier alternative to takeout; it’s a deliciously satisfying dish that brings bright flavors to your table. I encourage you to give it a try, whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of savory and sweet with a spicy kick is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends!

Skinny Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Skinny Orange Chicken combines tender chicken with a zesty orange sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is not only delicious but also healthy, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this satisfying meal tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/4 cup chicken stock or broth
• 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 3 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish, optional
• Broccoli for serving

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Melt coconut oil in medium skillet over medium heat. Add in chicken pieces and cook until cooked through and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. While chicken is cooking, stir together chicken stock, honey or maple syrup, garlic, orange zest, orange juice, coconut aminos, Sriracha sauce, ginger and red pepper flakes. Pour into heated skillet once chicken has been removed and reduce to low heat.
3. Cook, stirring often, until sauce has been reduced and coats the back of a wooden spoon. Remove from heat and pour over chicken.
4. To serve, spoon chicken over a bed of broccoli and then spoon on additional sauce. Top with sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

• Tip 1: Use butter or olive oil instead of coconut oil if not concerned with making this recipe Paleo-friendly.
• Tip 2: Substitute soy sauce for coconut aminos if preferred.
• Tip 3: If the sauce does not thicken as desired, you can mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of tapioca flour or arrowroot powder with water to create a paste and stir it into the sauce.

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Meet Naomi Prince

Cooking is about excitement, and I love taking simple ingredients and turning them into something bold. I work on every aspect of the blog, from brainstorming zesty new combinations to styling the final plate. I tested this recipe in my own home to guarantee it packs the perfect punch of flavor for you.