If you love bold flavors with a hint of sweetness, this Orange Chicken Stir-Fry is the perfect recipe for you. It’s a quick and easy dish that brings together juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty orange sauce. Best of all, you can have this stir-fry ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
- Quick and Flavorful: Ready in just 30 minutes, packed with tangy orange and savory flavors.
- Healthy and Balanced: Loaded with chicken and vegetables, this dish provides a nutritious, balanced meal.
- Versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Key Ingredients
To make this delicious Orange Chicken Stir-Fry, you’ll need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Broccoli: 2 cups, chopped.
- Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 yellow, sliced.
- Carrots: 1 large, thinly sliced.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
For the Orange Sauce:
- Orange Juice: 1/2 cup, freshly squeezed.
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup, low-sodium.
- Honey: 2 tablespoons.
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (for thickening).
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for heat).
How to Make Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Make the Orange Sauce
- Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
- Add the Sauce to the Skillet: Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir until it thickens and coats the veggies.
4. Combine and Serve
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat everything in the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Tips for the Best Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice will give the best flavor for the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Keep the veggies crisp by cooking them just until tender.
- Add a Protein: Try adding tofu or shrimp for a variation of this dish.
Variations of Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
1. Vegetarian Orange Stir-Fry
Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh to make a delicious vegetarian version.
2. Orange Shrimp Stir-Fry
For a seafood twist, replace the chicken with shrimp and cook it until pink and opaque.
3. Spicy Orange Stir-Fry
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce for a spicier version.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Vitamin C: Thanks to the fresh orange juice and bell peppers, this dish is packed with immune-boosting Vitamin C.
- Lean Protein: Chicken provides a healthy, lean source of protein to keep you full and energized.
- Low in Calories: This stir-fry is naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for a healthy weeknight dinner.
FAQs About Orange Chicken Stir-Fry
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, but fresh orange juice will give the best flavor. If you use store-bought, make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Orange Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that you can enjoy any night of the week. With its bright orange sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. For more easy weeknight meals, try our Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry or Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine for more inspiration!