This Healthy Orange Chicken Sauce is a lightened-up take on the classic Chinese take-out dish. It’s loaded with flavour, easy to make and absolutely delicious especially when paired with rice and a side of veggies. few dishes can compete with the sweet and tangy allure of orange chicken.
It’s a beloved favourite in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its crispy chicken pieces drenched in a mouthwatering orange sauce. However, many versions of this dish are laden with unhealthy ingredients and excess calories. But fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create a healthier version of this classic recipe
a nutritious and delicious orange chicken sauce that will satisfy your taste buds without compromising your health.
Introduction: Healthy Orange Chicken Sauce
Healthy Orange Chicken is one of those recipes you want in your back pocket for days when you need something on the table fast and you’d prefer it to be healthy, satisfying, and totally delicious. This easy dish is a Panda Express copycat recipe with crispy chicken in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. My version tastes just as good as the restaurant version, but is healthier and so simple to make at home!
Healthy Orange Chicken Sauce is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser, but traditional recipes often rely on excessive sugar and deep-frying techniques. We’re here to introduce a healthier approach that maintains deliciousness while being mindful of your well-being.
Healthy Orange Chicken Sauce (Components):
- Orange Juice:
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 3-4 oranges) - Low-Sodium Soy Sauce:
1/4 Cup low-sodium soy sauce - Honey:
1/4 Cup honey (you may regulate the amount for desired sweetness) - Rice Vinegar:
2 tablespoons rice vinegar - Fresh Ginger:
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger - Garlic:
3 cloves garlic, minced - Cornstarch:
2 tablespoons cornstarch (to thicken the sauce) - Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
Pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Prepare the Orange Juice:
Squeeze enough oranges to yield 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Mix the components:
In a mixing bowl, integrate the freshly squeezed orange juice, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of crimson pepper flakes if you need a little heat.
Thicken the Sauce:
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a cornstarch slurry.
Cook and Thicken:
Pour the sauce combination right into a saucepan and warm over medium-excessive warmness.
As soon as the sauce begins to simmer, add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce.
Stir constantly till the sauce thickens. This needs to take about 2-3 minutes.
Modify Consistency:
If the sauce is too thick, you could add a chunk of water or orange juice to attain your preferred consistency.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spiciness by adding more honey or red pepper flakes if needed.
Use in Your Recipe:
Once the sauce reaches the favoured consistency and flavour, take away it from the warmth.
Preparation:
- Marinating the Chicken
Marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and a touch of ginger. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavour. - Preparing the Sauce Base
In a saucepan, combine fresh orange juice, low-sodium soy sauce, natural sweetener, and a dash of rice vinegar. Simmer until it thickens slightly. - Frying Techniques
For a healthier twist, use an air fryer or bake the marinated chicken instead of deep frying. This reduces unnecessary oil intake.
Cooking the Healthy Orange Chicken Sauce:
- Achieving the Right Consistency
The key to a great orange chicken sauce is the perfect consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding cornstarch or water as needed. - Balancing Flavors
Taste as you go and adjust the balance of sweet, salty, and tangy elements to suit your preference. - Adding a Zest of Health
Boost the nutritional value by tossing in an orange zest for a burst of citrus flavour and added vitamins.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pairing with Whole Grains
Serve your healthy orange chicken sauce over brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal packed with fibre and nutrients. - A Rainbow of Vegetables
Add stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas for a colourful and nutritious side.
Health Benefits:
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
This healthier version of orange chicken sauce is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin C, protein, and antioxidants. - Low-Calorie Goodness
Enjoy the same delicious taste with fewer calories, making it suitable for those watching their weight.
Conclusion
Incorporate our healthy orange chicken sauce recipe into your culinary repertoire, and you’ll never look back. It’s a tasty and nutritious alternative to the classic version, allowing you to indulge in your favourite dish guilt-free. Embrace the goodness of fresh ingredients and savour every bite.
