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Orange Chicken Bowls

Orange Chicken Bowls
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Quick and easy Orange Chicken Bowls featuring tender chicken coated in a tangy, sweet orange sauce paired with fresh vegetables and served over a bed of rice or quinoa. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly meal balances bright citrus flavors with savory umami and offers versatile options for protein and veggies.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Orange Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced

Vegetables

  • 1 cup broccoli florets or snap peas (or a mix of bell peppers, carrots, baby corn)

Base

  • 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, basmati, or alternatives like quinoa or cauliflower rice)

Other

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
  • Salt, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt. Coat evenly with a small amount of cornstarch to help achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Orange Sauce: In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. In a bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch. Pour the mixture into the pan and stir constantly until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
  4. Combine Chicken and Veggies: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the orange sauce. Add your choice of vegetables and cook just until they become tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the warm cooked rice or quinoa into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the saucy chicken and cooked vegetables. Garnish as desired with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Do not overcook vegetables; keep them crisp and vibrant by adding them last.
  • Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing honey or brown sugar to match your preference.
  • Double the sauce quantities if you like extra sauce and serve it on the side.
  • For deeper flavor, marinate chicken pieces in orange juice and soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: orange chicken, chicken bowls, quick dinner, family meal, gluten-free, easy recipe, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/orange-chicken-bowls/