Orange Sesame Chicken is a classic takeout favorite that you can easily recreate at home with a few simple ingredients. This zesty stir-fry brings together juicy chicken, a punchy orange sauce, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables for a meal that’s as delicious as it is beautiful on the plate.
About the Recipe
If you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors, this Orange Sesame Chicken has to go on your must-try list. The bright, citrusy sauce perfectly complements the subtle heat from ginger and garlic, while the sesame seeds add an irresistible nutty crunch. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together quickly on a busy weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this Orange Sesame Chicken recipe. The sauce is crazy addictive – a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that will have you licking your plate clean. Combining textures from the tender chicken, crisp-tender veggies, and toasted sesame seeds keeps things interesting in every bite. Plus, it’s a great way to pack in plenty of veggies in a dish the whole family will happily devour.
Orange Sesame Chicken
For best results, be sure to cook the chicken in batches so it gets a nice sear instead of steaming. Toss the sauce ingredients together while the chicken cooks so it’s ready to go. Lastly, don’t skip toasting the sesame seeds – it really amps up their aroma and crunch factor.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This Orange Sesame Chicken makes a hearty and satisfying main course for 4-6 people when served over steamed rice or noodles. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. merely reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of orange juice or broth to loosen up the sauce.
Similar Recipes
- Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry
- Beef and Broccoli
- Kung Pao Chicken
- Teriyaki Salmon and Veggies
Nutrient Benefits
Beyond being without a doubt delicious, this Orange Sesame Chicken packs in plenty of good-for-you nutrients. You’re getting lean protein from the chicken, fiber and antioxidants from the colorful veggies, and some healthy fats from the sesame seeds. The orange juice provides vitamin C, while the ginger offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Orange Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- 1.5 kgs Chicken (chopped into bite sized pieces)
- 1 1/2 cups Orange Juice
- 1/2 cup Vinegar
- 1/4 cup Soya Sauce
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 4 tsp Cornstarch
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Ginger (chopped)
- 3 tbsp Red Capsicum (finely chopped, seeds removed)
- 1 cup Carrots (sliced)
- 4 cups Green Peas
- 1/2 cup Celery (chopped)
- Oil as required
- Salt as per taste
- Sesame Seeds as required
- Black Pepper Powder as per taste
Instructions
- Whisk the orange juice, vinegar, soya sauce, brown sugar and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth.
- Heat 2 tblsp oil in a pan over medium flame.
- Add the chicken pieces, garlic, ginger and red capsicum.
- Cook for a few minutes until the chicken starts to change colour to brown.
- Remove and transfer to a plate.
- To the same pan, add 1 tblsp oil.
- Saute the carrots and celery for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken and green peas.
- Reduce flame to low and add the orange juice mixture.
- Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add salt and black pepper powder.
- Stir well.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and remove to a serving plate.
- Serve hot with cooked rice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Without a doubt. Chicken breasts will work great in this recipe too. Just be careful not to overcook them so they stay nice and juicy. Thighs tend to be a little more forgiving if left in the pan a minute too long.
What can I use instead of orange juice?
If you don’t have orange juice on hand, you can substitute equal amounts of pineapple juice, apple juice, or even some freshly squeezed orange segments. The bright, fruity flavor is key to balancing out the other bold ingredients.
Do I need to blanch the veggies first?
No need. The quick cook time is just enough to give the carrots, peas, and celery a perfect crisp-tender texture without any extra steps. Just make sure to slice the carrots and celery nice and thin before adding them to the pan.
Is this dish spicy? How can I adjust the heat level?
This Orange Sesame Chicken has just a very mild kick from the ginger and garlic. For more heat, you could add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. Or keep a bottle of chili garlic sauce or chili oil on the table for those who want to amp up the spice.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You bet. merely omit the chicken and double up on the vegetable portions instead. Tofu, chickpeas, or roasted veggies would also make a great protein-packed substitution for the chicken.
