Asian Style Orange Chicken Recipes For Busy Weeknight Dinners
When it comes to weeknight dinners, time is often of the essence. After a long day at work or running errands, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen preparing a meal. Fortunately, Asian-style orange chicken is a delicious and easy recipe that can bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table without consuming your entire evening. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will please the whole family.
This article will guide you through various Asian-style orange chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Whether you prefer a classic version, a healthier take, or a slow-cooker option, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into these delicious recipes that will have you enjoying a satisfying meal in no time!
Quick Orange Chicken Recipe
This quick orange chicken recipe is perfect for those nights when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry. With a delicious homemade orange sauce that takes just minutes to prepare, you can have dinner on the table fast.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Serving:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the orange sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the orange chicken over rice or with steamed vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a healthier spin on the classic orange chicken, this recipe uses baked chicken instead of frying. It’s lower in calories but still packed with flavor.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Serving:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix whole wheat breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the orange sauce by combining the orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and minced ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the chicken is done, toss it in the orange sauce. Serve over brown rice or quinoa and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
This slow cooker orange chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights. Prep it in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours (on low)
Total Time:
4 hours 10 minutes
Serving:
6 servings
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker sauce and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, mixing well to coat in the sauce.
- Serve over rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken for these recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; however, it is recommended to thaw it beforehand for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I serve with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or a side of vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal.
3. Can I make the orange sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The orange sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before adding it to your chicken.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of orange chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Follow the same cooking instructions for a delicious vegetarian option.
In conclusion, these Asian-style orange chicken recipes are not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Whether you choose to bake, fry, or slow cook, orange chicken is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation. Happy cooking!
