Ingredients

Sauce

(Ingredients for 4 servings)

• Water – 1 ½ cups
• Rice Vinegar – ⅓ cup
• Lemon Juice – ¼ cup
• Soy Sauce – 2 ½ tablespoons
• Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons
• Packed Brown Sugar – 1 cup
• Chopped Green Onion – 2 tablespoons
• Grated Orange Zest – 1 tablespoon
• Minced Fresh Ginger Root – ½ teaspoon
• Minced Garlic – ½ teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes – ¼ teaspoon
• Cornstarch – 3 tablespoons
• Water (for cornstarch mixture) – 2 tablespoons

Chicken

• Large Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breasts – 2, cut into ½-inch cubes
• All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon
• Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of water, rice vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, orange juice, and brown sugar. Whisk well to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add Zest and Seasonings: Add chopped green onion, grated orange zest, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water, stirring until smooth. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering sauce, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Flour: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the bowl, tossing until each piece is thoroughly coated with the seasoned flour.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add Sauce to Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken.
2. Final Touches: Stir occasionally, ensuring the chicken is well coated and the sauce reaches a glossy consistency. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve Hot: Garnish with extra green onions and orange zest, if desired. Serve hot over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 520mg

Servings

• Serves: 4 people

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Orange-Glazed Chicken has stood the test of time for good reason: it combines universally loved flavors with a unique twist. The citrus-based glaze is not only delicious but also versatile, bringing a bright, refreshing flavor that balances well with the savory components. This dish appeals to all ages, making it a go-to for family meals and special occasions. Its balance of sweetness, spice, and zest is easy to appreciate, while the simplicity of the preparation makes it accessible to home cooks of any skill level.

This recipe has also evolved with the times. Modern versions often incorporate healthier ingredients, lighter sauces, or alternative proteins, yet the basic concept remains unchanged. It’s a dish that people return to again and again because it brings something familiar yet exciting to the table every time.

Tips for Making the Perfect Orange-Glazed Chicken

1. Use Fresh Citrus: For the best flavor, opt for fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice along with freshly grated orange zest.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
3. Even Cooking: Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
4. Allow the Sauce to Thicken: Simmering the sauce until it’s thick and glossy will help it cling to the chicken, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Orange-Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can also be frozen. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this sauce pairs beautifully with other proteins like pork or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking times to suit the meat you’re using.

2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or a medley of vegetables. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times so the vegetables stay tender-crisp.

3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat and add to the cooked chicken when ready.

4. What can I serve with this dish?
This orange-glazed chicken pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste or replace some of the sugar with honey for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Classic Orange-Glazed Chicken is a dish that has everything—a delightful combination of flavors, easy preparation, and versatility that allows you to customize it according to your preferences. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, all rounded off with a refreshing citrus zing that makes every bite memorable. Whether served for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Orange-Glazed Chicken offers comfort and sophistication in one bowl.

Preparing this dish is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a warm, inviting meal that brings everyone together. The joy of Orange-Glazed Chicken lies in its simplicity, and its vibrant flavors remind us that sometimes the best meals are those that are both timeless and easy to make. So, gather around, share this delicious meal with loved ones, and let the flavors transport you to a place of comfort and joy.