Healthy Orange Sesame Chicken Delightful Dinner Recipe

December 17, 2025January 2, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade Components

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice

– Zest of 1 orange

– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

The chicken is the star of this dish. I love using boneless, skinless chicken breast. It cooks quickly and stays juicy. The marinade makes the chicken burst with flavor. The soy sauce adds depth, while the fresh orange juice gives a bright taste. Zest from the orange enhances the citrus notes. Honey or maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness. Sesame oil adds a nice nutty flavor that ties everything together.

Seasoning Ingredients

– 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

– 2 green onions, thinly sliced

– Salt and pepper to taste

Ginger and garlic are key here. They add warmth and spice to the dish. The cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it rich and sticky. I sprinkle sesame seeds for crunch and texture. Green onions add freshness and color. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors.

Optional Serving Additions

– 1 cup steamed broccoli (optional, for serving)

Steamed broccoli is a great side. It adds color and nutrients. Plus, it soaks up the sauce well. You can also serve this dish with rice or noodles for a heartier meal. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your sides!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

Start by making the marinade for the chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together:

– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice

– Zest of 1 orange

– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

This mix adds flavor and moisture to the chicken. Set aside a small amount of this sauce for later use. It will complement the dish at the end.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown. This step ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful.

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange sauce from the bowl over it. Stir to coat all the pieces evenly. Bring the skillet to a gentle simmer. This allows the chicken to soak in the delicious sauce.

Thickening the Sauce

To thicken the sauce, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the skillet while stirring continuously. After 1-2 minutes, the sauce will thicken nicely. This makes the dish richer and more satisfying.

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sesame seeds and half of the sliced green onions. You are now ready to serve. Enjoy this healthy orange sesame chicken over steamed broccoli for a complete meal. Drizzle the reserved sauce on top and garnish with the rest of the green onions for extra flavor and color.

Tips & Tricks

How to Ensure Chicken is Juicy

To keep your chicken juicy, start with good quality meat. I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Cook it over medium-high heat in a non-stick pan. This helps to lock in moisture. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece space. Stir occasionally and avoid overcooking. Aim for a golden brown color, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Enhancing Flavor without Extra Calories

You can add great flavor without extra calories. Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep salt in check. Fresh orange juice and zest give a bright taste. Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness without too much sugar. Fresh ginger and garlic boost the flavor profile. They also offer health benefits without added fat. Use sesame oil, but keep it light. Even sesame seeds can add a nice crunch without many calories.

Best Cooking Equipment to Use

Use a large non-stick skillet or wok for best results. This allows for even cooking and easy stirring. A whisk is handy for mixing the marinade. A cutting board and sharp knife make prep simple. If you have a meat thermometer, use it to check the chicken’s doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. A spatula helps when stirring the chicken in the pan. These tools make cooking smooth and fun!

Variations

Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Needs

You can easily swap out ingredients in this recipe to fit your diet. If you want a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. To reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute in place of honey or maple syrup. For a lower-calorie dish, use less sesame oil. If you are vegetarian, replace the chicken with tofu. It absorbs flavors well and adds protein.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Grilling is a great way to add a smoky flavor. Just marinate the chicken and grill it until cooked through. Baking is another option. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes. You can also use an air fryer for a crispy texture. Cook the chicken at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions for Different Meal Types

This dish works well for many meals. For lunch, serve it in a wrap with lettuce and sliced veggies. For dinner, pair it with steamed broccoli as the recipe suggests. You can also serve it over brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber. For a light snack, try it cold in a salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

You can store your Healthy Orange Sesame Chicken in an airtight container. Let it cool first to avoid steam. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the broccoli to keep it fresh.

Reheating Techniques to Maintain Flavor

To reheat, use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of water or extra orange juice to keep it moist. Stir gently until it warms through. You can also use a microwave. Cover it and heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

If you want to freeze it, pack the chicken in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure you thaw it first. Thawing makes it easier to cut into bite-sized pieces. You can safely thaw chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave’s defrost setting. After thawing, follow the recipe as normal.

What is the nutritional information for Healthy Orange Sesame Chicken?

This dish is healthy and tasty. Each serving has about 250 calories. It contains 30 grams of protein, 10 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbs. It also has vitamins from orange juice and ginger. If you add broccoli, you gain fiber, too.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free. Just swap low-sodium soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, you keep the great flavor without any gluten.

What other vegetables pair well with this dish?

Many veggies work well with this dish. Try bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. You can also use bok choy or zucchini for a fresh taste. Feel free to mix and match your favorites. Adding colorful veggies makes the meal look great and boosts nutrition.

This article covers everything you need for a great Healthy Orange Sesame Chicken. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, tips for juicy chicken, and tasty variations. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. If you focus on the right flavors and cooking tools, your chicken will shine. Feel free to adapt the recipe to fit your needs. Enjoy your cooking, and remember, the joy of this dish is in its simple adjustments and fresh taste