Are you craving a delicious and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This orange glazed chicken recipe is a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend meal, this recipe is a surefire winner for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. Get ready for a taste sensation that'll leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
For the most flavorful chicken, marinate the chicken pieces in half of the orange juice, soy sauce, and honey for at least 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the delicious flavors, resulting in a juicier and more tender final product.
Step 2: Prepare the Orange Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, orange zest, ginger, and minced garlic. This mixture forms the base of our vibrant and tangy glaze.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the sesame oil (if using) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
Step 4: Create the Thickening Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This slurry will help thicken our glaze to a perfect consistency.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
Pour the orange glaze over the cooked chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Slowly add the cornstarch slurry, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the orange glazed chicken immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Orange Glazed Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey. Conversely, add more for a sweeter dish.
- Fresh ingredients are best: Using freshly squeezed orange juice and grated ginger significantly elevates the flavor profile.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the glaze and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You might want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Stir-fry your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas with the chicken for a complete and healthy meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Use different citrus: Experiment with lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy balance of protein and flavor. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. A general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) would be approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. It's also a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!