Orange-flavored chicken has always been one of my favorite Chinese dishes. However, the classic version—breaded, deep-fried chicken coated in a thick, sweet, sticky sauce—isn’t ideal when you’re trying to eat lighter or follow a Weight Watchers plan.
To enjoy the same bright, tangy flavor without the excess fat and calories, I developed a lighter version of orange chicken that’s much lower in fat and carbs than the restaurant-style dish.
It’s also incredibly quick: this recipe takes under 30 minutes from start to finish.
By sautéing the chicken instead of deep-frying it and using a leaner, flavorful sauce, you still get great texture and taste with far fewer calories. Serve it over steamed brown rice and broccoli for a balanced weeknight meal.
Honestly, this Light Orange Chicken was so tasty I went back for seconds—without rice—yet I still ate far less than I would at a restaurant. That’s a win in my book.
Light Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 grams) skinless, boneless chicken breast – (cut into bite sized pieces)
- ¼ cup fat free chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic – (minced)
- ⅓ cup orange juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Lightly spray a large nonstick skillet with olive oil mister or nonfat cooking spray and heat over medium-high.
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Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper and add to the skillet. Brown the pieces evenly, adding the chicken broth a tablespoon at a time if needed to prevent sticking. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
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While the chicken cooks, whisk the remaining ingredients (orange juice, honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, orange zest, and ground ginger) in a small bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for one to two minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Equipment
Notes
*Based only on ingredients that have an SP Freestyle value
Nutrition