Zesty Orange Chicken for the Dinner Table

Zesty Orange Chicken is a bright and flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken coated in a fresh orange glaze. The combination of citrus, garlic, and savory seasonings creates a delicious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or green onion

Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Prepare the orange glaze: In a bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
4. Add the sauce: Pour the orange mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors combine.
5. Thicken the glaze: Mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Pour it into the skillet while stirring. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the orange glaze becomes slightly thick and glossy.
6. Serve: Toss the chicken in the glaze until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onion and serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4