Savory Sticky Asian Blood Orange Chicken For Weekend Meal Prep
Are you looking for a flavorful and easy meal prep idea for your weekend? Look no further! This Savory Sticky Asian Blood Orange Chicken is the perfect solution for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal throughout the week.
Blood oranges add a unique twist to traditional Asian flavors, making this dish not only tasty but visually stunning as well. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup blood orange juice
- 1 tablespoon blood orange zest
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Steamed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas)
- Cooked jasmine rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the blood orange juice, blood orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This will be your marinade and sauce.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Set aside.
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the blood orange sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
- To serve, divide the cooked jasmine rice or quinoa among meal prep containers. Top with the savory sticky Asian blood orange chicken and a generous helping of steamed vegetables.
- Allow the meal prep containers to cool before sealing and storing them in the refrigerator. This dish can be enjoyed for up to 4 days.
Why Meal Prep This Dish?
Meal prepping can save you time and stress during the week. With this savory sticky Asian blood orange chicken, you can have a nutritious and delicious meal ready to go in just minutes. The flavors meld beautifully, allowing you to enjoy the dish even more as the days pass.
Additionally, this recipe is easily customizable. You can swap out chicken thighs for chicken breasts, or even use tofu or shrimp for a different protein. The choice of vegetables is also flexible, so feel free to incorporate your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
FAQs
Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?
Yes, you can substitute regular oranges for blood oranges. However, the unique flavor and vibrant color of blood oranges do add a special touch to this dish.
How long can I store the meal prep chicken?
This savory sticky chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is best enjoyed within this time frame for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or stir-fried vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Sticky Chicken
To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly sticky and flavorful, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes if you have time. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste.
Another tip is to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking and that the chicken gets that nice golden-brown color.
Conclusion
This Savory Sticky Asian Blood Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that is perfect for weekend meal prep. With its unique flavors and vibrant presentation, it is sure to impress your family or guests. Enjoy the convenience of having delicious meals ready to go, while still indulging in bold and tantalizing flavors.
Give this recipe a try this weekend and enjoy the combination of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite. Happy cooking!
