A Quick and Delicious Gluten-Free Orange Chicken Recipe

Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s both quick to prepare and gluten-free? Look no further than this delightful Orange Chicken recipe. Combining tender pieces of chicken with a tangy and sweet orange sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

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

1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Orange Sauce:

1 cup orange juice (preferably fresh)

1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

1 teaspoon grated ginger

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)

For Garnish (optional):

Sesame seeds

Chopped green onions

Orange zest

Instructions:

Prep the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture until well-coated.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Orange Sauce:

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the orange juice, gluten-free soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame oil if desired.

Combine and Serve:

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the orange sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.

Serve the Orange Chicken over steamed rice or with a side of vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and orange zest if desired.

Tips for Success:

Use Fresh Orange Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice. It will enhance the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce.

Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a bit more honey or maple syrup to taste.

Gluten-Free Flour: Make sure to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum for the best coating texture.

This gluten-free Orange Chicken is not only quick and easy but also packed with vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal that feels special. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family who might be looking for a tasty gluten-free option. Happy cooking!