Are you looking for a tasty and healthy dinner option? Then you might be interested in trying orange chicken! With only 395 calories per serving (6 oz), orange chicken is a smart choice for a nutritious meal.

Not only is orange chicken low in calories, but it also provides a good amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken itself is a good source of protein and iron, while the orange sauce adds vitamin C and antioxidants.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value of orange chicken, share a delicious recipe for making it at home, explore some of the options available, and offer ideas for pairing it with sauces and sides.

Healthy Orange Chicken - a Smart Choice for Dinner

Orange chicken is a tasty and nutritious dinner option that can help you meet your dietary goals. With its low calorie count and high protein content, orange chicken can provide sustained energy and help you feel full for longer. Moreover, the vitamin C in the orange sauce can support your immune system, while the antioxidants can help protect your cells from damage.

The Nutritional Value of Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, such as vitamin B6, phosphorus, and niacin. A serving of orange chicken also provides about 12% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. However, some store-bought versions of orange chicken may be high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, so it's important to check the label before buying or ordering.

Delicious Orange Chicken Recipe at Home

Making orange chicken at home is easier than you might think, and you can customize the ingredients and flavors to your liking. To make orange chicken, you'll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cornstarch, egg, orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Coat the chicken with the egg and cornstarch mixture, fry it until crispy, then mix together the orange sauce ingredients and toss it with the chicken. Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Preparing Orange Chicken with Ingredients

To make orange chicken, you'll need to prepare the chicken and the sauce separately, then combine them before serving. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and coating them in a batter made of cornstarch and egg. Heat up some oil in a pan or wok, and fry the chicken until it is crispy and golden brown. In another pan, mix together the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes, and bring it to a simmer. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the sauce over it and toss it until the chicken is fully coated.

Variations of Orange Chicken Available

While orange chicken is traditionally made with chicken and orange sauce, there are many variations and adaptations of the dish available. Some alternative proteins that can be used include shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different spices, herbs, and vegetables to give the dish more flavor and nutrition. Ultimately, the choice of ingredients and preparation method is up to you, so feel free to get creative and try new things.

Why Should You Choose Orange Chicken

Orange chicken offers a combination of taste, convenience, and nutrition, making it a popular choice for many people. It can be a quick and easy meal to make at home or order from a restaurant, and it can provide essential nutrients while still satisfying your cravings. Moreover, orange chicken can be a versatile dish that can be adapted to different dietary needs and preferences, so everyone can enjoy it.

How to make Tasty Orange Chicken at Home

Making tasty orange chicken at home requires a few key ingredients and techniques that can help enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. For example, marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and aromatics such as garlic and ginger can add depth and richness to the meat. Additionally, using fresh oranges and a touch of orange zest in the sauce can bring out the natural sweetness and citrusy notes of the dish.

The Best Places to go for Orange Chicken

If you don't feel like cooking at home, there are many restaurants and fast food chains that serve orange chicken as part of their menu. Some popular options include Panda Express, PF Chang's, and Pei Wei, all of which offer different variations and styles of orange chicken. Just remember to check the nutritional information and ingredient list before ordering, to make sure you are making a healthy and informed choice.

Heating up Leftover Orange Chicken

If you have leftover orange chicken, you can easily reheat it for a quick and satisfying meal. To do so, place the chicken in a microwavable container and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it up for 1-2 minutes, or until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a pan or wok, along with some fresh vegetables and sauce, to give it a new and exciting flavor.

Sauces and Sides that Pair Well with Orange Chicken

To make the most out of your orange chicken dish, consider pairing it with complementary sauces and sides that can enhance the flavors and textures. Some popular sauces that go well with orange chicken include sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, and hoisin sauce. For sides, rice is a classic choice, but you can also try quinoa, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. And if you're feeling adventurous, try adding some fruit, such as pineapple or mandarin oranges, to the dish for a tangy twist.