Description
This Ground Orange Chicken is a quick, healthier take on classic takeout, made with lean ground chicken simmered in a sweet, tangy, citrus-forward orange sauce. It’s a one-pan, protein-packed dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Orange Sauce:
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
- Zest of 1 orange
Optional Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Extra orange zest
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and orange zest. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set aside.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart, until fully cooked.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Sauce: Pour the orange sauce into the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve hot over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
Notes
- Fresh orange juice and zest provide the most vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken; once browned, it’s ready for the sauce.
- Add extra red pepper flakes or sriracha for more heat.
- This recipe works well with ground turkey, pork, tofu, or tempeh.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keywords: Ground Orange Chicken, Orange Chicken with Ground Chicken, Ground Chicken Orange Chicken, Easy Ground Chicken Dinner, Chinese Ground Chicken Recipe