This Sweet Chili & Orange Chicken is a delicious and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of oranges with the subtle heat of chili. The juicy chicken pieces are coated in a sticky glaze made from fresh orange juice, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of garlic and ginger, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the orange juice, orange zest, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Sweet Chili & Orange Chicken hot over steamed rice or with your choice of vegetables. Enjoy!
