20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken.
If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delicious, and utterly satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than this 20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken. This dish is a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. The zesty orange juice combined with the savory tamari and a kick of chili paste brings out a rich depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome option for any dinner table. Let’s dive into the details of this quick culinary delight!
The Upside of 20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken.
When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a homemade meal can feel daunting. But with this 20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed, allowing you to serve a flavorful meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrition. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a crispy, tangy chicken dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or quinoa, and it’s all done in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredient Notes
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal for maximum flavor.
- Tamari or Soy Sauce: Choose tamari for a gluten-free option or soy sauce for traditional flavor.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness; maple syrup can be used for a vegan version.
- Pickled Ginger: Offers a unique tang; if unavailable, fresh ginger can be used.
- Chili Paste (Gochujang): Provides a spicy kick; adjust the amount to your heat preference.
- Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Ground Chicken: A lean protein that cooks quickly; can substitute with turkey.
- Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch: Helps achieve that desired crispiness.
- Butter: Adds richness; can be replaced with vegan butter if desired.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic will impart the best flavor.
- Broccoli: A great source of nutrition; feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetable.
- Toasted Sesame/Peanuts: For garnishing; adds texture and flavor.
- Green Onions: Freshly chopped for a vibrant finish.
Equipment at a Glance
- Skillet: A large skillet is essential for cooking the chicken evenly.
- Spatula: Use a spatula for easy flipping and stirring.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Cutting Board and Knife: To chop your vegetables and garlic.
Stepwise Method: 20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the orange juice, tamari or soy sauce, honey, chopped pickled ginger, ginger juice, chili paste, and toasted sesame oil. Whisk until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with arrowroot powder or cornstarch. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare your vegetables. This will help the chicken absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Heat 3 tablespoons of sesame oil (or olive oil) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Add Broccoli
Stir in the chopped broccoli, and pour in the remaining marinade. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the salted butter until melted and well incorporated. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds or peanuts and chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
- Substitute ground chicken with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegan option.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan sweetener.
- Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Use vegetable broth instead of tamari for a vegetarian-friendly base.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
- Burnt Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- Overcooked Chicken: Ground chicken cooks fast; avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
- Too Much Spice: Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your heat preference to prevent overpowering the dish.
- Sticky Chicken: Ensure that the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy texture.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This 20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken is perfect for meal prepping! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop to enjoy another delicious meal. You can also freeze it for up to a month, but be sure to separate it into portions for easier thawing and reheating.
20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken. FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Yes! You can finely chop or grind chicken breast and follow the same cooking instructions. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad would complement it perfectly!
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This 20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade and delicious. Enjoy!
20 Minute Crispy Orange Garlic Chicken.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the orange juice, tamari or soy sauce, honey, chopped pickled ginger, ginger juice, chili paste, and toasted sesame oil. Whisk until well combined.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with arrowroot powder or cornstarch. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare your vegetables.
- Heat 3 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the chopped broccoli, and pour in the remaining marinade. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the salted butter until melted and well incorporated. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds or peanuts and chopped green onions.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- Ground chicken can be substituted with tofu or tempeh for a vegan option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
