Easy Orange Ground Chicken Recipe (25-Minutes)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Orange Ground Chicken recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that comes together in just 25 minutes. The chicken is tender and juicy, coated in a tangy and slightly sweet orange sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple, delicious, and a great way to enjoy a lighter version of Chinese-inspired orange chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground chicken
• olive oil
• garlic (minced)
• ginger (minced)
• orange juice
• soy sauce
• honey
• rice vinegar
• cornstarch
• red pepper flakes (optional)
• green onions (for garnish)
• sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground chicken to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer. Stir frequently, allowing the sauce to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the cooked ground chicken back into the pan and toss to coat in the orange sauce. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce.
8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Use turkey or lean beef in place of ground chicken for a different flavor.
• For a spicier kick, add chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave or heat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh orange juice?
Yes, fresh orange juice works wonderfully and adds a more vibrant flavor to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of ground chicken?
Yes, you can finely chop or shred cooked chicken breasts and follow the same steps for the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat before serving.

Can I use a sugar substitute for the honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with a sugar alternative like agave nectar or maple syrup.

What should I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of sautéed vegetables.

Conclusion

With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, this Easy Orange Ground Chicken recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal. The sweet and tangy sauce paired with tender ground chicken makes this dish a winner every time. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

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