Wholesome Orange Chicken: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite

When it comes to takeout favorites, orange chicken often tops the list. With its crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, it's no wonder why this dish has such universal appeal. However, the traditional version can be quite heavy on calories and not the healthiest option. Enter Wholesome Orange Chicken—a lighter, healthier version that doesn't skimp on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious and nutritious version of orange chicken, you'll need the following ingredients:

Chicken:

1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil

1/4 cup of whole wheat flour or almond flour

Salt and pepper to taste

Orange Sauce:

1/2 cup of fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)

2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce or tamari

1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger

1 teaspoon of rice vinegar

1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (to thicken the sauce)

Zest of one orange

Optional Garnishes:

Sliced green onions

Sesame seeds

Steamed broccoli or snap peas (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Lightly coat them with whole wheat flour or almond flour.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and orange zest.

In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve the orange chicken over a bed of steamed vegetables or brown rice.

Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Why Wholesome Orange Chicken?

This version of orange chicken offers several health benefits:

Lower in Calories: By using whole wheat or almond flour and cooking with minimal oil, this recipe reduces the overall calorie count.

Nutrient-Rich: Fresh orange juice provides a boost of vitamin C, while garlic and ginger add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Less Sugar: Using honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener keeps the sauce flavorful without an excess of refined sugars.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute tamari for soy sauce and almond flour for a gluten-free dish that everyone can enjoy.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest make a big difference in flavor.

Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding the cornstarch slurry. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey or syrup.

Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.

Wholesome Orange Chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved dish with a healthier twist. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or whenever you crave a delicious, homemade takeout alternative. Enjoy the delightful combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors without any of the guilt!
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