Description
Orange Honey Soy Chicken
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cups broccoli florets (optional, for serving)
Cooked white rice (for serving)
For the Sauce:
1/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
3 tbsp honey
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
1/2 tsp grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
Directions
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.
Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Simmer the sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 2 more minutes to let the flavors combine.
Serve: Plate the chicken over steamed rice, with broccoli on the side, and garnish with orange slices if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep All Ingredients: Cut chicken into uniform pieces. Whisk sauce ingredients thoroughly in a bowl until cornstarch is fully dissolved. Prep broccoli and rice.
2. Cook the Protein: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Give the sauce another quick whisk (cornstarch settles) and pour it into the skillet. Stir constantly as it simmers and thickens into a glossy glaze, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat every piece. Let it simmer together for 1-2 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
5. Final Touches: If using broccoli, add it to the skillet in the last minute to warm through, or serve steamed on the side. Serve immediately over hot rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice. Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy make excellent vegetable sides. Garnish with sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, or a twist of orange zest for a fresh, colorful finish.
How-to Summary
Cut chicken and whisk sauce ingredients. Cook chicken until golden, then remove. In the same pan, simmer the sauce until thickened. Return chicken to the pan, toss to coat, and heat through. Serve with rice and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs will yield a juicier result and can withstand slightly longer cooking. Adjust cook time as needed until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
My sauce didn’t thicken. What happened? The cornstarch may not have been fully dissolved or the heat was too low. Always whisk cornstarch with cold liquid first. If sauce remains thin, mix 1 tsp more cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce.
How can I make this gluten-free? Simply substitute the soy sauce with a certified gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Ensure all other packaged ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can whisk the sauce together and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Shake or whisk well before using, as the cornstarch will settle.
Is fresh orange juice necessary? While fresh juice provides the best bright flavor, a good-quality, pulp-free store-bought orange juice will work in a pinch. Avoid orange juice concentrate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning the chicken, as this steams the meat instead of creating a golden sear. Cook in batches if needed. Do not add the cornstarch directly to the hot pan; it will clump. Always dissolve it in the cold liquid first. Finally, do not boil the sauce vigorously after adding the cornstarch, as it can break down and thin out again. A gentle simmer is key.
Conclusion
This Orange Honey Soy Chicken is a perfect weeknight solution, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. The balance of sweet citrus, savory soy, and aromatic ginger creates an irresistible glaze that pairs wonderfully with simple sides. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and achieve a delicious, impressive meal every time.