There’s something truly delightful about the bright burst of citrus that fills the kitchen as you prepare this Orange Chicken with Rice. Just imagining that irresistible aroma brings a smile to my face. A few months back, after a long week of fast-food runs and uninspired dinners, I craved something vibrant and homemade. I stumbled upon this gem tucked away in my recipe book, and it quickly transformed my evenings into flavorful feasts.
This dish doesn’t just look stunning on the plate; it delivers a fresh, sweet-and-savory profile that will have your family coming back for seconds. The tender chicken, coated in a luscious orange glaze, pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice, making it a crowd-pleaser in every sense. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, taking just 35 minutes from prep to plate. It’s time to break away from the ordinary and dive into a recipe that brings a burst of sunshine right to your dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Orange Chicken with Rice
- This Orange Chicken with Rice is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a delightful punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- The vibrant combination of sweet and savory ensures that every bite is a treat, making it a dish you’ll want to savor.
- Its versatility allows for easy customization, whether you want to add veggies or tweak the spice levels to suit your family’s preferences.
- Not to mention, it looks absolutely stunning on the plate, making it the perfect dish for impressing guests or simply enjoying a lovely weeknight dinner.
Orange Chicken with Rice Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic in the kitchen with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – a lean protein option that keeps the dish light and flavorful.
- Fresh garlic – adds an aromatic depth to the dish with a delightful zing.
- Fresh ginger – infuses warmth and spice, perfectly complementing the orange flavors.
For the Sauce
- Freshly squeezed orange juice – imparts a vibrant, zesty sweetness that defines this Orange Chicken with Rice.
- Low-sodium soy sauce – balances the sweetness and enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- Granulated sugar – adds a hint of sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory ingredients.
- Cornstarch – helps thicken the sauce, giving it that luscious coating you crave.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – a sprinkle brings a touch of heat, perfect for adding a little kick!
For the Rice
- Jasmine rice – this fragrant rice provides a fluffy foundation that soaks up the delicious orange sauce.
For Cooking
- Vegetable oil – ideal for frying, allowing the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust.
With these ingredients, you’re just a step away from crafting a meal that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress!
How to Make Orange Chicken with Rice
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Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces; mince the garlic and ginger finely. This ensures even cooking and distribution of flavors in your dish, making every bite deliciously tender.
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Whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Make sure to stir in the cornstarch until the mixture is smooth; this will create that irresistible glaze.
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and a lovely color.
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Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken and simmer for about 5 minutes. This thickens the sauce beautifully, making your chicken glossy and full of flavor.
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Prepare jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff it up once cooked, allowing it to soak in all the flavors from the chicken once served.
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Spoon rice onto plates and generously top with the orange-glazed chicken. If desired, garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Optional: Drizzle with extra orange juice for a burst of citrus freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Orange Chicken with Rice
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain the dish’s delightful flavors and textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice to maintain moisture, ensuring the orange chicken with rice stays juicy and delicious.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, leave out no longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.
Orange Chicken with Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.
With a simple swap, you can enjoy the same sweet and savory goodness while keeping it gluten-free. -
Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in diced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
Not only will this add a colorful crunch, but it will also make the dish heartier and even more delightful! -
Citrus Medley: Use a mix of citrus juices, such as lime or grapefruit, along with the orange juice for an exciting flavor twist.
This variation delivers a unique burst of brightness that will keep your taste buds guessing. -
Honey Sweetener: Swap out granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
This will infuse a new layer of complexity and richness, adding a hint of floral notes to your sauce. -
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha to your sauce.
A touch of spice can elevate this dish to a whole new level, bringing warmth and excitement to every bite! -
Coconut Rice: Cook the jasmine rice in coconut milk instead of water for a creamy, tropical flavor pairing.
This delightful alteration adds a hint of sweetness and a rich texture that complements the orange glaze beautifully. -
Air Fryer Chicken: Coat chicken pieces lightly with cornstarch and air fry for a healthier, crispy alternative.
This method reduces the amount of oil needed while still achieving that coveted golden brown crust. -
Fruit Garnish: Top your finished dish with toasted sliced almonds or crushed cashews for added crunch.
A sprinkle of nuts not only adds texture but also amps up the nutritional value, enhancing every bite!
What to Serve with Orange Chicken with Rice?
There’s nothing quite like a vibrant meal that brings the family together around the dinner table, bursting with flavor and warmth.
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Steamed Broccoli: This green delight adds a crisp texture and a fresh contrast to the sweetness of the chicken, making it a nutritious side.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These provide a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken, with a savory filling that enhances your meal.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, a tangy cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar brightens the palette, pairing perfectly with the already rich flavors.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste of fresh bread serves not only as a comforting side but also soaks up any extra orange sauce on your plate.
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Mango Smoothie: For a drink, sip on a creamy mango smoothie; its tropical flair beautifully ties in with citrus while offering a sweet, cool contrast.
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Sesame Green Beans: Tossed with sesame oil and seeds, these beans lend a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, enhancing your dinner experience.
This medley of sides complements the Orange Chicken with Rice perfectly, creating a memorable meal that’s sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Chicken with Rice are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken and mince the garlic and ginger up to 24 hours in advance to save time. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also prepare the orange sauce by mixing the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch ahead of time—just refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, heat the vegetable oil, add the prepped chicken, pour in the sauce, and simmer until thickened. With this approach, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal in no time!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Orange Chicken with Rice, cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- To avoid a gritty sauce, make sure to dissolve the cornstarch completely in the orange juice mixture before adding it to the chicken.
- Cooking the chicken over medium heat allows it to brown nicely without burning, giving it a delicious flavor.
- Serve the jasmine rice immediately after cooking for the best fluffiness; if it sits too long, it can become gummy.
Orange Chicken with Rice Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best oranges for the sauce?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that feel heavy for their size and have a smooth, firm skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness. Fresh oranges will yield the best juice, enhancing your Orange Chicken with Rice with that vibrant zest!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for about 3 days. Just remember to let the dish cool down to room temperature before sealing it up, as this helps preserve its flavors and textures.
Can I freeze this Orange Chicken with Rice? How?
Yes! To freeze your Orange Chicken with Rice, allow it to cool completely first. Then, portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove with a splash of water or orange juice to keep it juicy!
What if my sauce isn’t thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, it could be due to not incorporating the cornstarch properly. Make sure you whisk the cornstarch with the orange juice mixture until fully smooth before adding it to the chicken. If the sauce still doesn’t thicken, let it simmer a bit longer on low heat while stirring continually. This will allow it to reduce and thicken, giving you that luscious glaze!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This Orange Chicken with Rice is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re serving sensitive guests, check for potential allergies, especially to soy or sesame seeds in the garnishing. I often make this dish with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, catering to various preferences while keeping it tasty!
Orange Chicken with Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces; mince the garlic and ginger finely.
- Whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir in the cornstarch until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the orange sauce over the cooked chicken and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff it up once cooked.
- Spoon rice onto plates and generously top with the orange-glazed chicken.
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