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–+ servings

Easy Sesame-Orange Chicken Recipe

This easy sesame-orange chicken recipe offers a flavorful blend of sweet citrus, savory sesame, and tender chicken bites. Perfect for a quick meal, it’s a simple way to enjoy a homemade version of a classic takeout dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Asian-Inspired
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Medium-sized mixing bowl
  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
  • 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1-inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and grated
  • 2 garlic cloves grated
  • Zest and juice of ½ orange
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1–2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • Steamed white or brown rice

Variations:

  • Shrimp Version: Substitute chicken with frozen shrimp thawed
  • Vegetarian Version: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken.

Instructions
 

  • Coat the Chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and the flour, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
  • Mix the Sauce: In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, orange zest, orange juice, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame oil until combined.
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
  • Combine with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly, which should take about 5–10 minutes. Stir in the chopped green onions.
  • Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice. Sprinkle with additional green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes for your preferred spice level.
  • Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keyword Easy Food Recipes, easy sesame chicken recipe, homemade orange chicken sauce, pan-fried sesame chicken, quick orange chicken dinner, simple Asian chicken recipe
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