If you're looking for a simple yet delicious meal, I've got just the recipe for you—Orange Glazed Chicken Stir Fry. This dish is packed with flavor, bright colors, and tons of nutrients. In just a few easy steps, you can whip up a savory meal that will impress anyone at your table. Get ready to enjoy a delightful blend of juicy chicken and fresh veggies, all kissed with zesty orange glaze!
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 2 cups assorted bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and julienned
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed and rinsed
- 3 green onions, sliced (both green and white parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (divided)
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked jasmine rice or stir-fry noodles for serving
Optional Garnishes
- Green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh orange slices
When I prepare this dish, I love to gather all my ingredients first. It makes cooking smoother and more fun. The chicken gives a nice protein base. I use bright bell peppers for color and crunch. Carrots add sweetness, while snap peas bring a nice snap. Green onions add a fresh bite. The garlic and ginger give a lovely aroma.
The sauce is simple yet tasty. Soy sauce brings saltiness, and orange juice adds a sweet twist. Honey enhances the sweetness, while the cornstarch makes the sauce thick and nice. I use sesame oil for that distinct nutty flavor.
For garnishes, I recommend adding sliced green onions on top. Sesame seeds can add a crunchy texture. Fresh orange slices also make the dish look pretty and fresh.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Orange Glaze
Start by mixing the sauce ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
Make sure the mixture is smooth. Set this orange glaze aside for later use.
Cooking the Chicken
Next, heat sesame oil in a large skillet. Use 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers.
Add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Avoid overcrowding. Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until it’s thoroughly done and has a light golden color. Once it’s ready, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and the sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. You want the vegetables to be slightly tender but still bright.
Next, add the julienned carrot and snap peas. Keep stir-frying for 2 more minutes. This step helps maintain a nice crunch.
Combining Ingredients
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the orange glaze over the entire mixture. Stir everything together well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to bubble and thicken.
Just before removing it from the heat, fold in the sliced green onions. Stir for another minute to mix the flavors.
Serve this vibrant orange glazed chicken stir-fry over jasmine rice or stir-fry noodles. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
- Maintaining crunch in vegetables: To keep your veggies crisp, stir-fry them over high heat. Cook them just until they are bright and tender. Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
- Perfecting chicken stir-fry: Cut the chicken into thin strips for quick cooking. Heat your pan before adding chicken. This ensures a nice sear and keeps the meat juicy.
Flavor Enhancements
- Adjusting sweetness in glaze: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more honey. Start with a teaspoon at a time until it reaches your desired taste.
- Adding spices for extra kick: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze. This adds a nice balance to the sweet orange flavor.
Presentation Ideas
- Serving suggestions: Serve your stir-fry on a large platter to show off the colors. Top it with sesame seeds and orange slices. This will make the dish pop and look more inviting.
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Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap the chicken for tofu to make a vegetarian dish. Tofu absorbs flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. Just cut it into strips like chicken.
Beef or shrimp are great options too. Thinly slice the beef before cooking. For shrimp, use large ones for a nice bite. Cook them just until pink. This keeps them tender and juicy.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies. Broccoli, zucchini, or bok choy work well. They add color and nutrients. You can even try mushrooms for a hearty bite.
If you have leftover veggies, freeze them. Stir-fry mixes freeze well. Just make sure to blanch them first for the best taste. This way, you can enjoy your stir-fry anytime!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store your orange glazed chicken stir fry in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to eat it, just take out what you need. This dish tastes great even after a day or two!
Freezing
You can freeze this stir fry, too. Simply let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. This way, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Guidelines
Reheat your stir fry in a skillet or pan. This keeps the veggies crunchy. Heat it over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally, so it warms evenly. You can also use the microwave; just cover it with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Enjoy your meal just as fresh as the first time!
FAQs
How to make Orange Glazed Chicken Stir Fry?
1. First, mix the soy sauce, orange juice, honey, and cornstarch in a bowl. This is your orange glaze.
2. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken strips to the skillet. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden.
4. Take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
5. In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of sesame oil. Then, toss in minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Now, add the julienned carrot and snap peas. Stir-fry for 2 more minutes.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the orange glaze over everything. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Finally, add sliced green onions and stir for one more minute. Serve over rice or noodles.
Can I prepare the orange glaze in advance?
Yes, you can make the orange glaze ahead of time. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, give it a quick stir and pour it over your stir-fry as you cook. This saves time and makes meal prep easier.
What can I serve with Orange Glazed Chicken Stir Fry?
Serve this dish over fluffy jasmine rice or stir-fry noodles. You can also add a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad. These pair well and balance the flavors of the stir-fry. For a fun twist, try serving it in lettuce wraps.
How do I customize the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the orange glaze. If you prefer a milder dish, skip these ingredients. You can also use sweet bell peppers for less heat. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
In this article, we covered how to make a tasty orange glazed chicken stir fry. You learned about the main ingredients, optional garnishes, and each cooking step. We shared tips to keep your veggies crunchy and make your dish pop with flavor. I also provided variations for protein and vegetables to fit your taste. Remember, you can customize your dish to suit your preference. Enjoy trying this fun recipe, and don't be afraid to experiment!
