Ground Orange Chicken
This comforting ground orange chicken dish balances simplicity with vibrant flavors, making it perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground chicken Tender and moist
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable) For sautéing
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced Brings warmth and zest
- 2 green onions white and light green parts sliced Green tops reserved for garnish
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice (from 2-3 oranges) Provides moisture and sweetness
- 1 tablespoon orange zest Intensifies citrus flavor
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred) Adds umami
- 2 tablespoons honey Offers distinct sweetness
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Adds tanginess
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil Enhances depth of flavor
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch For thickening sauce
- 2 tablespoons cold water To dissolve cornstarch
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the lean ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink and lightly golden-brown, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Avoid burning.
- Add the sliced green onions (white and light green parts) and cook for another minute until softened.
- Pour in the fresh orange juice and add the orange zest. Stir gently to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Mix in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Stir well for a minute.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then slowly pour this into the skillet while stirring the chicken.
- Let the mixture cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the reserved green onion tops over the dish.
- Serve warm, over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside steamed vegetables.
Notes
Adjust sweetness with honey and add vegetables like bell peppers for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.