5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe – Quick and Easy

5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe: Simple, Delicious, and Quick

Introduction:
If you’re craving a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love, look no further than this 5 ingredient orange chicken recipe. Inspired by the classic Chinese takeout favorite, this simplified version brings all the sweet, tangy goodness without the need for complicated ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is sure to impress.

I remember when my grandmother first taught me to make orange chicken in her kitchen. She always kept it simple, focusing on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This easy 5 ingredient orange chicken recipe is a perfect blend of nostalgia and convenience, delivering a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

What Makes This 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe So Special?

The beauty of a 5 ingredient orange chicken recipe lies in its simplicity. With just five key ingredients, you can create a dish that’s as tasty as it is straightforward. There’s no need for complicated marinades or long prep times. Here’s a breakdown of why this version stands out:

  1. Quick and Simple: This recipe requires minimal ingredients, which means you’ll have dinner ready in no time.

  2. Flavor-Packed: Despite being simple, the combination of sweet orange sauce with crispy chicken is undeniably delicious.

  3. Perfect for Busy Weeknights: When you need a meal that’s both fast and fulfilling, this is your go-to recipe.

Key Ingredients for Your 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy and delicious orange chicken:

  • Chicken Breast or Thighs: Boneless, skinless pieces work best for this dish.

  • Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal, but store-bought orange juice works too.

    Orange Juice
    A refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, garnished with a slice of orange.

  • Soy Sauce: This adds depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness of the orange.

  • Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken, giving it that golden crispy texture.

  • Honey or Sugar: This sweetens the sauce and complements the tangy orange flavor.

How to Make the Best 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe

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5 ingredient orange chicken recipe

5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe


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  • Author: Fati Bendahi
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a sweet and savory orange chicken dish in no time! With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh orange juice and honey, you’ll be able to make a flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy nights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (for coating


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

    • Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly covered.

  2. Cook the Chicken:

    • Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

  3. Make the Orange Sauce:

    • In the same pan, add orange juice, soy sauce, and honey (or sugar). Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

    • Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss it in the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and thicken further.

  5. Serve:

    • Once the chicken is fully coated with the sauce, remove from heat and serve over steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor, but store-bought juice is fine if you’re in a hurry.

  • Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of honey or sugar for a sweeter or more balanced sauce.

  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of chili paste to the sauce if you want a spicy kick.

  • Serve with Vegetables: Pair this dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a more complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

This is the easiest 5 ingredient orange chicken recipe you’ll ever make! Let’s break it down step by step:

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Servings:

4 servings

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 cup orange juice

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

    • Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Coat the chicken in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This gives the chicken a light, crispy exterior once cooked.

  2. Cook the Chicken:

    • Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

  3. Make the Orange Sauce:

    • In the same pan, add the orange juice, soy sauce, and honey (or sugar). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

  4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

    • Return the crispy chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce to ensure every piece is coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to further thicken and glaze the chicken.

  5. Serve:

    • Once the chicken is coated in the thickened sauce, remove it from the heat. Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnish with green onions, and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe

This 5 ingredient orange chicken recipe is all about balancing flavors. The sweetness of the orange juice pairs perfectly with the savory soy sauce and the hint of honey. The crispy chicken adds texture, making each bite both satisfying and delicious.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken Every Time

  • Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice offers the best flavor. However, if you’re short on time, store-bought juice can work in a pinch.

  • Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of honey or sugar in the sauce.

  • Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Variations of This 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few variations:

  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, onions, or broccoli into the dish for more texture and color.

  • Use Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even pork.

  • Try a Sweet and Sour Twist: Add a splash of vinegar to the sauce for a tangy contrast.

Conclusion: The Ultimate 5 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe

This 5 ingredient orange chicken recipe is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a memorable dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this simple yet flavorful recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—what more could you ask for?

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