Description

Weeknight Orange Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious dinner that combines tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty orange sauce. This healthy, flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a better-for-you take on takeout, customizable with your favorite veggies, and served over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. The sweet, savory, and tangy flavor will have your family asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Stir-Fry:

1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

1 cup broccoli florets

1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced

For the Orange Sauce:

1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)

1 tablespoon orange zest

1/4 cup soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

2 tablespoons honey or sugar

1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)

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Instructions

Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), and cornstarch (if using). Set aside.

Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the bell pepper, onion, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Combine the chicken and sauce: Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the orange sauce over the mixture. Stir everything to coat with the sauce.

Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the skillet until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Serve: Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles. Garnish with additional orange zest or green onions if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through. If the sauce thickens, add a little water while reheating.
Customize with your favorite vegetables and adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers.