Skip the takeout & make this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe for dinner! Paleo, gluten free + delicious – it’s one of the best healthy chicken recipes! Made with just a few ingredients, it’s tasty and easy to make!
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I really don’t play favorites with my recipes.. or at least I try not to.. but whenever someone asks me what my favorite recipe from my site it, I always say it’s this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe
(with these Healthy Chicken Tenders coming in at a close second!).
Made with minimal ingredients, full of flavor, and easy to make – this dish is one I always turn to!
Orange Chicken is one of my favorite things to order when we get takeout. But as I’m sure most of you know.. Chinese food is definitely not the healthiest dinner option (Hello MSG overload!)
Years ago when I first started eating healthy was on a mission to try to make all my favorite foods healthy, and orange chicken was one of the first things to get a makeover!
I’ll admit, there were (and still are) many concoctions that I try that come out a total mess. Muffins that are flatter than pancakes… Breads that never rise..
But THIS lighter orange chicken recipe recipe is one where all the healthy substitutions turned into something SUPER delicious! It’s seriously one of the best healthy chicken recipes.
This was one of those recipes that as I was making it I was a little skeptical.. Would the flavor be right? Would the sauce be thick enough or would I just be eating chicken coated in a weird orange juice mixture??
So many questions. Thankfully the flavor was so on point and the sauce was perfectly thick. It had the same consistency of the amazing sauce you get at a restaurant!
On top of being super delicious + beyond easy to make, this recipe is so versatile. Here are different ways to serve this Healthy Orange Chicken.
Ways to Serve this Healthy Orange Chicken:
- Feeding a crowd of hungry people? Serve it over a giant bowl of brown rice/quinoa + broccoli.
- Trying to keep paleo? Skip the rice entirely or do cauliflower rice.
- Not a huge fan of cauliflower rice? Serve it over zoodles!
- Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or steamed cauliflower are great for veggie side dishes
What to do if the sauce doesn’t thicken with this Healthy Orange Chicken
Give it time, I promise. Re-read the directions listed in the recipe.
The chicken needs to be completely removed from the pan, and the sauce needs to boil for 15-20 minutes.
Stir the sauce every few minutes, and once the sauce starts to pull away from the pan as you scrape it back, you’ll know it’s ready!
My sauce is more brown than orange, is this ok?
Yes! This is totally fine! Your sauce might look a little dark than these photos simply due to the ingredients you use.
The color won’t impact the flavor!
The next time you’re tempted to get takeout… skip the delivery service and just make it yourself!
I hope you love this amazing twist on takeout as much as we do. It’s a delicious healthy chicken recipe I think you’ll love!
Substitutions for this Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe:
- Orange Juice– you can sub regular bottled orange juice with freshly squeezed orange juice
- Ginger– you can substitute fresh ginger with 1/4 tablespoon ground ginger
- Coconut Aminos – You can sub coconut aminos with soy sauce or bragg’s liquid aminos – but the recipe will no longer be paleo.
How to make Healthy Orange Chicken:
Other healthy chicken recipes you’ll love:
- Sheet Pan Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thigh Dinner
- Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Greek Chicken Spaghetti Squash Bake
- Healthy Maple Mustard Chicken
- Whole30 Pesto Chicken Zucchini Noodles
Healthy Orange Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups steamed broccoli or green beans
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
Sauce
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger***
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cleaned + cut chicken into 1 inch cubes. In a large frying pan, cook the cubed chicken in the toasted sesame oil until the edges are brown and slightly crispy (Approx 5-10 minutes)
- As the chicken is cooking, stir together the sauce mixture in a separate bowl
- Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked remove it from the pan and place it off to the side in a separate bowl.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan you cooked the chicken in.
- Bring the sauce mixture to a boil for 15-20 minutes, stirring every minute or so until it starts to thicken. (You will know it has thickened when you scrape the pan and it pulls away from the pan)
- When the sauce thickens, add the cooked chicken back in + stir to coat the chicken
- Serve over steamed broccoli or green beans for a paleo option, or rice/quinoa.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds + enjoy!
- *** If substituting ground ginger for fresh ginger, cut the amount in 1/4 to 1/4 tablespoon.
Instant Pot Instructions
- IMPORTANT: If making this recipe in the instant pot you will need 3 teaspoons of cornstarch or arrowroot powder. You also must use 1/2 the amount of ingredients in the sauce recipe, except for chicken stock. Ex: Orange Juice: 2 cups = 1 cup
- Mix together 1/2 the amount called for in the recipe for the orange juice, coconut aminos, honey, garlic powder, ginger, orange zest and pepper. Set aside.
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté on the highest heat setting. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and allow it to heat up. The Instant Pot will display the word “hot” when it’s ready.
- Trim the chicken breasts and dry them off with paper towels. When the Instant Pot is hot place the chicken breasts in the oil. You’ll need to do 2 at a time so you do not crowd the pot. Sear them on each side for 2 minutes then flip just to get a golden color. You’re not trying to cook them through.
- Pull them out and set them on a cutting board. Dice them into 1 inch pieces.
- Put the diced chicken back into the Instant Pot and pour the sauce mixture over. Close the lid and put the vent to sealing. Set it to Manual High Pressure for 3 minutes. Note that pot will take 3-5 minutes to come to pressure before the display starts counting down the 3 minutes you’ve set. When it’s finished quick release the steam by setting the valve to venting. Be sure to use a towel or pot holder to do this so you don’t get burned.
- When the Instant Pot releases all the steam the button will lower down and you’ll be able to safely open the lid.
- Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place on a plate. Mix together the chicken broth and corn starch. Turn the Instant Pot back to sauté choosing the highest heat setting again. Your sauce should begin to bubble. Stream in the corn starch slurry and whisk. Allow the mixture to boil for 7-9 minutes until it’s nice and thick. Return the chicken to the sauce and select the “Keep Warm” setting on the Instant Pot. Serve over steamed broccoli or green beans for a paleo option, or rice/quinoa.
Video
Notes
- To get your sauté on highest setting, Press sauté then hit the adjust button and choose “more” to set it to the highest setting.
- It’s very important that they are dried off before you put them in the hot oil so they will brown.
- It’s very important to brown the chicken breasts whole prior to dicing them. This ensures that maximum surface area makes contact with the pan and the chicken actually browns. Browning the chicken is an important step. This seals the juices in and ensures the chicken doesn’t release too much liquid while being pressure cooked. This additional liquid effects the consistency of the sauce.
- The sauce will seem thin until you add the corn starch slurry and reduce it down. This is normal.
- Feeding a crowd of hungry people? Serve it over a giant bowl of brown rice/quinoa + broccoli.
- Trying to keep paleo? Skip the rice entirely or do cauliflower rice.
- Not a huge fan of cauliflower rice? Serve it over zoodles!
- Broccoli, green beans, or steamed cauliflower are great for veggie side dishes
Nutrition Facts
thetrainerlife
The sauce sounds amazing. I will definitely give it a try this week.
Clean Eating & Focused Training
It is ! Let me know how you like it 🙂
Heather
I made this tonight for my family and it was amazing!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Heather!
Wendy @ Wholistic Woman
Love this! I’ve been craving Chinese food lately (the unhealthy kind) and this may do the trick.
The Clean Eating Couple
It totally will Wendy! It kicked my cravings 🙂 We also have a Pad Thai Recipe that is out of this world! https://thecleaneatingcouple.com/2014/02/15/healthy-chicken-pad-thai/
Piecefully Balanced
This recipe was delicious, giving the Pad Thai a try the week! Thanks for the inspiration!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it!! This makes me so happy to hear!
rachel @atheltic avocado
Orange chicken is one of my favorites too!Love the sound of this healthy version! The pictures are gorgeous 🙂
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you!! I so appreciate that 🙂
Deanna Boehmer
The only thing that I would suggest is draining your chicken before tossing in the sauce.
I Cooke my sauce down to a thick consistency and it was delicious. Very “orangy” says my 10 year old but she ate every bite!
The Clean Eating Couple
Glad you liked it, Deanna! When you remove the chicken from the pan, you’re leaving the oil in the pan for the sauce to help cook. We use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken!
Sammy
The chicken looks delicious! Although it doesn’t look like there is much sauce, would eating this with brown rice make it a little dry? Can’t wait to try it!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Sammy – If you want more sauce to put on rice you can just double the sauce ingredients!
Emily
So I can’t say that I won’t ever get take out again, but this looks like an AMAZING alternative when you want to cook something quick.
The Clean Eating Couple
I mean… Takeout is kinda amazing when you need something quick! Who could totally pass it up!? But this is waaaaay tastier 🙂
Eva Geier
I can’t wait to try making this 🙂 Just read your soup post, too. Thank you for sharing!!
The Clean Eating Couple
It’s so yummy!! I’m sure your fam will love it 🙂
Nida
Hi… the recipe sounds delicious, but unfortunately we don’t get coconut aminos her! Can we substitute it with something else. Thanks
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Nida,
Coconut aminos are pretty much everywhere! I would check in your grocery store near the soy sauce – you may have never noticed them before. I’d recommend a low sodium soy sauce in it’s place if you can’t find it!
Bridget Mahoney
Sometimes (and depending on where you live)they are labelled “Soy Sauce Substitute”
This recipe looks amazing! I am going to try it for sure. Was thinking of using thighs though as they are just so juicy,
The Clean Eating Couple
Great idea Bridget! Bet that would be delicious!
CEEH
My sauce did not thicken I had to add a thickener. Will have to make some adjustments and try again!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi There – I’m really sorry to hear this! Did you follow the directions on the time for the sauce? It needs to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes before it will thicken.
Lilajo
Mine either what did u use to thicken it!!!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi! Did you follow the directions on the time for the sauce? It needs to boil for at least 15-20 minutes before it will thicken. The sauce should be at a rolling boil + bubbling for it to thicken 🙂 You do not need to add thickeners to it!
Yesenia
What kind of orange juice was used?
The Clean Eating Couple
Just regular orange juice purchased from the store. I always look for one that is 100% real orange juice.
C
Just tried this tonight and it was great, but way too spicy for my toddler and I was nervous to eat it because I am nursing. I think maybe less pepper and omitting the red pepper flakes in the future will make it less spicy – Thoughts?
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi! There’s actually a note in the recipe card right next to pepper flakes saying to omit if you like things less spicy. Next time I would omit that and if you’re serving to kids I probably would omit sriracha. Black pepper doesn’t typically make things spicy but if you want to omit that too you can and always add after.
Brian S
Super good. Made enough for 5 meals. My first time cooking raw chicken lol. Next time I will cut it after the initial cooking while the sauce boils. Sauce didn’t thicken quite as much as I’d hoped, but still tasted great. Do I just keep the sauce on med-high the whole time? Maybe add flour if it doesn’t thicken?
Thanks for sharing this!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Brian – Per the direction, the chicken needs to be cubed prior to cooking it. You need to keep the sauce on medium to high heat and boil it. It will thicken after 15-20 minutes. I wouldn’t add flour, just be patient 🙂
Natalia Thillet
Wow! I’ve tried many healthier/paleo orange chicken recipes and they would never get even close to the main chain restaurants. After watching Liz’s Insta story about it a while back and how much she raved about how similar it was to restaurants, I had to try it. Let me tell you, she wasn’t lying! It is sooooo tasty and I love how the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. I gave it to my husband to try and he was so shocked to hear that it was all healthier ingredients. This is as close as you can get to the real thing and in my opinion better, because you feel great about what you are putting into your body! 🙂
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you like this recipe, Natalia!! It is one of my favorite dinners to make! And I totally agree- I love that you can feel better about eating this vs takeout!!
Amber
My husband and I really enjoyed this recipe. It has already been added to our dinner rotation! 10/10 would recommend!!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Amber!!
Lisa
I made this and it was yummy but my sauce is brown instead of orange – did I do something wrong? The sauce did thicken though after 20 minutes! Thanks for sharing.
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Lisa -I wouldn’t worry if the sauce is more brown than orange. It could just have to do with the brand of ingredients you used. Some orange juices are lighter and some coconut aminos are browner. 🙂
Justin
It’s good but too much pepper. I figured is follow the directions first but that’s the change I’d make.
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Justin – We think the pepper gives it the right amount of kick, are you sure you put in the correct amount? Either way, we appreciate the feedback 🙂
Dawn
The orange chicken was so good! It’s going into our monthly rotation. Thanks for sharing!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it, Dawn!! It’s one of my favorites too!
Meghan M.
Has anyone tried cooking this in the instant pot?
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m sorry but I haven’t tried this in my instant pot + I haven’t heard from anyone else that has either!
Caroline
Thank you for the recipe and including the Nutrition Facts. Could you possibly check the Amount Per Serving? Was it intended to be one gram? Maybe 100g?? Thank you for your time and help. It’s very appreciated!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi! This recipe serves 4, the nutrition facts are for 1 serving. I recommend making the dish and evenly portioning it out into 4 servings. Hope that helps.
Caroline
Thanks!
Andrea
I made this last night for dinner, with brown rice and steamed broccoli. It was amazing! I added a healthy tablespoon of sambal and about a teaspoon of rice vinegar, I like playing around with recipes, usually don’t follow them to a T, unless it’s baking. Anyway, everyone loved it, even the picky one. Thank you for sharing! Definitely will be keeping in the recipe rotation.
The Clean Eating Couple
Yay!! I’m so glad you liked it, Andrea! I’m going to try your twist on it – that sounds yummy 🙂
Misty
My sauce did not thicken 🙁 I followed the recipe to a T. I did use 50 calorie orange juice and reduced sodium chicken broth and the Bragg’s liquid aminos. I ended up having to add cornstarch and it still didn’t thicken that much, so I’m wondering if it had something to do with those ingredients? However the sauce did taste really good! 🙂 I noticed you told someone rolling boil for 20 minutes and you said simmer to another person. We did the rolling boil for 20. But we’ll give it another try with other ingredients next time!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Misty – This likely didn’t work because of the orange juice. You need to use regular orange juice because of the sugar content. The naturally occurring sugar in orange juice is a large part of what makes the sauce thicken because as the sugars break down they become syrup-y. It might also have to do with the Bragg’s liquid aminos.. I don’t really cook with that, so it might have affected the results as well. I have only tested this recipe with coconut aminos or soy sauce. I’d try it again!
Alyssa
I usually do all of the cooking and rarely actually follow a recipe. Sometimes I need my husband to step in and make dinner during the week. But if I don’t want one of the same 3 healthy dishes he knows how to make, he needs a simple and easy to follow recipe. It’s hard to find one though that’s not only easy, but tastes good and is healthy.
Well, I was pleasantly surprised yesterday when he was the one who found this recipe. And it was so good! It was perfect to satisfy my chinese craving but was so fresh tasting and not disgustingly sweet (and no ketchup!). If my husband successfully follow this recipe, almost anyone can! The only alterations made were that he used fresh garlic and fresh oranges for the juice.
I’m happy to say that my husband now has 4 healthy meals he can make, and I will definitely be requesting this from him again!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it, Alyssa!! If you are looking for another yummy takeout-fakeout recipe, try this Healthy Chicken Pad Thai – I bet your husband can master this one too!!
Madison
We make this recipe multiples times a month!! It is seriously one of our favorites. If I’m in a big hurry and need the sauce to thicken up quicker, I’ll add a teaspoon or so of cornstarch once it’s been bubbling for a while. It’s 100% worth the time waiting for it to thicken on its own though!
The Clean Eating Couple
Thanks Madison!! The cornstarch trick is perfect because I know a lot of people don’t like to wait 🙂
Kelly
If using ground ginger vs fresh, would you still use a full tbsp?
The Clean Eating Couple
If using ground ginger I would cut it down to 1/4, so 1/4 tbsp ground ginger or 1 tbsp fresh ginger. Let me know if you try it!
Kelly
Thank you for the reply. I did make it and it was awesome!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it!!
Nancy
I haven’t made this dish but I will soon! Can I replace the coconut aminos with coconut water or would it give the sauce a totally different flavor?
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Nancy – No you can’t replace coconut aminos with coconut water. It would make the sauce too sweet + it wouldn’t thicken correctly. Per the notes under substitutions – you can sub it with soy sauce or bragg’s liquid aminos but then the recipe will not be paleo. You can get coconut aminos for pretty cheap at trader joes- they’re totally worth buying!
Katie Mehaffey
One of our household favorites! Easy, delicious, and healthy!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you like it, Katie! It’s one of my favorites too 🙂
Kira
Just made this and it was so good! Thanks for sharing 🙂 Did just want to let you know that the recipe says 1 tbsp fresh or ground ginger. It was only after I put in 1 tbsp of GROUND ginger that I read the comment where you mentioned using 1/4th. Luckily, I love love love ginger, but it’d be very helpful if that was in the recipe just in case some people (read: me) don’t read the comments! Otherwise can’t wait to make this again!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Kira – I’m so sorry that happened and thank you for pointing it out. I just updated the recipe card because you’re totally right – that is not as clear as it could be. Either way though – I’m so glad you liked it!! 🙂
Lori
Ha I did that also.
Pam S.
haven’t tried it yet because was concerned about the high sugar content. 27 grams is a lot! Is there a way to cut that down?
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Pam – the sugar comes from 100% pure orange juice and honey. Unfortunately you can’t leave either of those out because as those natural sugars cook, that is what makes the sauce thicken. Despite being higher in natural sugars, it’s still infinitely more healthy than takeout!
Lucy
This is totally one of my favorite recipes from now on! Thank you so much for sharing it, I love this kind of food.
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Lucy! I’m so glad you like it!
Emma
I tried this recipe twice with sugar free honey and low sodium chicken broth and it did not thicken? Is it because I used these ingredients? I boiled it for quite a while and it did not get any thicker.
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Emma – I’ve never heard of sugar free honey, but I would guess that is why it didn’t thicken. The natural sugars in honey + orange juice are what allow the sauce to thicken!
Ben Davis
This is amazing…
A few points:
1). Unless you have a giant skillet, divide the sesame oil and chicken between two pans. Otherwise, it’s difficult to brown the chicken (especially with today’s water-added chicken breasts) without overcooking. The pan is too crowded with all in one.
2). Add 1/4 to 1/2 a teaspoon of red Chile (I used the slightly dried red chile, depending on taste. Most orange chicken recipes in restaurants contain some, and the heat is a good counterpoint to the rich sweetness of the orange sauce.
But overall, a great healthy recipe.
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Ben – Glad you liked it! I cook this in a pretty standard size pan and don’t seem to have a problem with browning it! This recipe used to have 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, but I removed it because many people commented that it was a little to spicy for their family/kids. I like the addition of that as well!
kira
If your sauce won’t thicken, try adding in corn starch and let it continue to boil.
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Kira – You could do this, but if you just follow the directions and let it boil for 15-20 minutes it will naturally thicken on it’s own from the natural sugars in the orange juice/honey!
Jeannie
This was delicious!!! 5 Stars!! Thank you!!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it, Jeannie! It’s one of my favorites too! 🙂
Jodi
Thank you for this recipe! It was easy & delicious! I followed the exact recipe & boiled the sauce for 20 plus minutes but did not thicken. Still tasted delicious but would like to figure out how to thicken the sauce…maybe boiler it for longer?
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Jodi – Was the sauce at a rolling boil (bubbling) for the full time? That’s what it needs to thicken!
Jo Eppa
WOW! This was amazing! This was an all time favorite and it will be repeated often! YUM!
The Clean Eating Couple
Glad to hear it, Jo! It’s on repeat in our house too:)
Kyle Miller
I’ve been waiting for a suitable meal to leave a review for on this website and so; here I am. If it is an orange chicken, take-out heart warming meal you’re craving, this is easily the correct choice. The greatest flavor without an excessive amount of ingredients and the absence of an unwelcome aftertaste. I decided to go prepare this meal tonight but rather coconut amino I opted for Soy sauce. This added a bit saltier taste than some may prefer so keep that in mind. Thank you for sharing this dish with us!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it, Kyle! Soy sauce is an easy sub in this recipe and definitely gives it more of a saltier takeout feel 🙂
Erin
Whenever I crave Chinese food I dread the gross/sick feeling I get afterwards but this cleaner ingredient orange chicken never makes me feel like crap. Love this recipe!! ❤️
The Clean Eating Couple
This makes me so happy to hear, Erin!! That’s exactly why I created this recipe 🙂 I’m so glad you like it!!
mlink
Just tried it. I followed the recipe and mine thickened up nicely after 20 minutes or so. The flavor is fantastic! I will keep the sauce as it is for the future but I enjoy sous vide and will probably cook my chicken that way next time. This is a definite keeper. Thank you. In look forward to checking out your other recipes.
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it! I don’t have a sous vide but I’ve heard such great thing about it!
Dawn
My whole family loves this recipe! It’s definitely a keeper! I substituted with soy sauce since it’s what I had on hand but still amazing!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Dawn!!
Melina
Amazing recipe, I loved it. I brought the sauce to a boil for 20 minutes but it still didn’t thicken as much as I had hoped… any advice on what I should do next time?
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Melina – Was the sauce at a rolling boil (bubbling) for the full 20 minutes? That’s the key!
Lauren
Wow. This turned out amazing. I will continue using this recipe. The key to the sauce really is to be patient. I let mine simmer for almost 25 minutes. It turned out perfect.
The Clean Eating Couple
Thanks, Lauren!! So glad you liked it!
Bailea
I made this last for my husband and I (he’s a super picky eater) and we both absolutely loved it! I made a whole bunch for the week. Definitely give it a try!!
The Clean Eating Couple
Yay!! I’m so glad you liked it Bailea! And I’m jealous you get to enjoy it all week long 🙂
Kim
Loved the recipe! The fresh oranges make it so delicious! Thanks for sharing 🙂
—@dcfoodnoobs
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Kim!
Marisela Cruz
I made this last night and can’t believe how Delicious it was!! It had so much flavor and didn’t taste healthy at all! I’m trying to find ways to eat healthy without getting bored and this one is one of my favs! Thanks!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Marisela!!
Kimberly Clause
I have made this recipe half a dozen times now and my family actually asks for it! Due to multiple allergies in our home, we eat pretty clean. Soy free Chinese food is difficult to do, but this is EXCELLENT! Seriously, I crave this sauce!!!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you like it, Kimberly!! And that your family loves it too 🙂
Igor
I made this recipe tonight and, while I overcooked the chicken (newbie cook), it was an incredible dish! Very easy to make and I had no problem thickening the sauce without any thickener by following the instructions. I will definitely be making this again.
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Igor!
Jessica
I’ve had my eye on this recipe for a while now and I finally gave it a shot. My husband and I are starting to meal prep and eat cleaner throughout our work week. I made this today and it was delicious and a great addition to our rotation. You really have to be patient with the sauce and let it boil and simmer for those 20 minutes but it’s worth the wait. I used freshly squeezed orange juice and just strained the pulp and it gave it a fantastic taste. Absolutely great dish and can’t wait to try more!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked the recipe, Jessica! This makes me so happy to hear. You’re totally right on the sauce – it’s worth the wait 🙂 This Healthy Chicken Pad Thai is one of our other favorite takeout ‘fakeout’ recipes. Soooo yummy!
Elizabeth
Made this tonight for dinner with rice and steamed broccoli and it was so incredibly yummy!!! Definitely recommend!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Elizabeth!! It’s one of our favorites too 🙂
Amy
Do you think this could be made ahead and frozen?
The Clean Eating Couple
I would definitely not recommend that. Cooked chicken does not freeze well in my experience and I don’t think that the sauce would freeze well either, although I haven’t tried it.
Brianne
This was absolutely amazing. Like, we almost couldn’t eat it because we kept looking up at each other, astonished, saying: this is as good if not better than going to pfchang’s. Seriously, delicious! Sticky, slightly sweet, orange-y, not too salty. Ugh! The best! I should’ve doubled the recipe. I used: Bragg’s liquid aminos (slightly less than what’s called for), my fresh ginger was a no go… used ground, forgot to zest the oranges before they were in the trash. Still turned out amazing! We would love to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper next time because hubby likes heat. Will be making this weekly… no joke. Bahaha! Thank you, Liz!
The Clean Eating Couple
This makes me so happy to hear, Brianne!! I think it’s better than takeout too 🙂 You totally can add in crushed red pepper or even some sriracha. Tyler likes this a little spicier too – so he usually will add sriracha at the end or to the sauce!
Hattie
This will definitely go on heavy rotation for me! I had it with quinoa, zucchini, and broccoli. My boyfriend had it with Trader Joe’s fried rice. Both were so yummy 🙂
The Clean Eating Couple
Thanks Hattie!! That fried rice from TJs is so good – perfect thing to pair it with!
Emily
Ok, holy moly this is amazing. I made this last night for my boyfriend and I and we were fighting over who got to lick the spoon after dinner. This was so good! I am def. not a cook, I actually hate cooking because every recipe I find usually have 12,000 ingredients that I don’t have and don’t want to buy just to use once. This recipe has minimal ingredients and the great part about Liz, is that most of her other recipes have the same ingredients so I’ll use them again.
The sauce was so easy to make- like I said, I’m not a cook and even I could do this super easily!! What a huge win and we will definitely be making this again…like real soon.
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you SO much Emily!! I’m so glad you and your boyfriend liked it. I totally hate recipes with a million ingredients too – so I’m glad this was easy for you and you enjoyed it!!
Lauren V
This is the perfect recipe! Easy to make and the sauce packs a TON of flavor. I recently made it with ground chicken and it was delicious. I know that this will continue to be on repeat for lunches and dinners!
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Lauren!! I’m so glad you liked it!
Kelly M
This was definitely a great healthy option and the orange flavor was perfect! The pepper intensified so it was too much for our 4y/o and 1y/o, but my hubby and I liked it. Next time I’ll cut the pepper in half and see how it goes! I put mine over brown rice that I did in the InstaPot – YUM!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it, Kelly! You definitely can cut back on the pepper for your family!
Erja
Loooove this recipe! Never thought I could make my own Chinese food so easy and quick. This was a big hit with my husband and daughter as well, so I’m definitely saving it to my favorites!!
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Erja! I’m so glad you + your family liked the orange chicken!
Sarah K
Hi there! For the Instant Pot recipe, is there an amount of arrowroot? I just see ‘some’… Thanks in advance!
The Clean Eating Couple
Hi Sarah – Yes, it’s noted in the first instruction – you’ll need 3 teaspoon arrowroot powder or cornstarch!
Erica Broussard
It’s delicious, so much flavor. And definitely fixes my Chinese food cravings. I doubled the recipe so I could freeze some for when I don’t have a meal prepped (or when I’m craving Chinese, again!)
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you like it, Erica! I’ve never tried freezing it – so I’m so glad it worked for you, I’m totally going to do that!
Carey
I forgot to rate the recipe the first time I commented! This is so yummy and a new family favorite of ours. Easy and quick to make!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you like it Carey! Thanks for trying it 🙂
Mindy
Have been following Cleaneatingcouple on insta for a while now and finally decided to try the orange chicken that I had been hearing so much about. Verdict: it actually exceeded my expectations! It was easy (the hardest part was cutting the chicken— that’s it! No other chopping or prep-steps), only required a handful of ingredients (many of which I already had in my pantry/fridge), only dirtied 2 dishes, and took about 30 minutes total. I served it over a mixture of half fried rice and half cauliflower fried “rice.” I also like a little heat so added some red pepper which complemented the sweetness of the sauce well. I Will definitely be making this one regularly.
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you liked it, Mindy! I also love that it requires only a few dishes – it’s one of my favs!!
Nancy Stevens
This was so easy to make, and even better tasting! I subbed out the coconut for the soy sauce, so obviously it was a little darker in color. I made it with cauliflower rice and the green beans, and it was a hit. I will make it again for my husband as well as for friends coming over for dinner! SO GOOD!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Nancy! Love that you made it for friends too – that makes me happy to hear everyone enjoyed it!
Jordan
This is so yummy!! Easy to make and tastes delicious!!!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you like it, Jordan! That makes me happy to hear!
Katie
I’ve made this for my family and hey all loved it! Perfect healthy alternative to take out!
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Katie! It definitely is the best alternative to takeout!
Lori
I made the Healthy Orange chicken and it was so good. I really like Chinese food and we have lots of restaurants here in Canada but lately it’s just too greasy, too much batter on stuff, and they add MSG. So this healthy orange chicken hits the spot.❤️
The Clean Eating Couple
Thanks Lori! Chinese food definitely can be sooo greasy/salty – this is so much better!
Audrey
This recipe was so simple and quick to make… but it delivered on flavor big time! The instructions were super simple to follow and I love that it can be adjusted for paleo/whole30. My husband already wants me to make it for dinner again this week 😀
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Audrey! Happy you and your husband enjoyed it 🙂
Jenny
This was very good thanks for sharing
The Clean Eating Couple
Thanks Jenny!
Courtney M.
I made this recipe in the instant pot for my family for dinner and it was a hit! Clean, easy and delicious! My kids even asked for more. Thanks so much for sharing your recipe.
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it Courtney! Thanks for giving it a try 🙂
Nicole
SO GOOD!!! Tastes like the real deal 😋😋😋
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Nicole!
Jen
Loved it. Simple, delicious and a big hit with my family. Thank you! ☺️
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad to hear this, Jen! thanks for letting us know 🙂
Grace
This was delicious and an excellent stand in for when you have a takeout craving. Served it with cauliflower rice and it was very satisfying. Served it with regular rice for my kids and they loved it! They asked for me to make it again soon, which doesn’t happen often with anything actually healthy!
The Clean Eating Couple
I’m so glad you and your kids liked it, Grace! This makes me so happy to hear 🙂
Kathy
Easy meal to prepare. So delicious! My whole family loved it. I have made it several times. Each time it is just as good. Never disappoints. I will make this on a regular basis!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Kathy! It’s one of our favs too 🙂
Molly
Very tasty!! Easy to make and my 2.5 year old twins loved it!! We paired it with brown rice and a veggie stir fry! We will deff make it again!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you + your family enjoyed it! Love that you served it with veggies and rice 🙂
Melissa
Finally tried this recipe and it totally lived up to the hype. My kids enjoyed it as well. I will definitely be making this one again!!
The Clean Eating Couple
Glad you & your kids liked it, Melissa!
Johanna
Loved the flavor! Had trouble getting my chicken to brown and then it dried out — any suggestions? Thanks for a great recipe! Family LOVED it (even with dry chicken.) 😀
The Clean Eating Couple
Glad you liked it, Johanna. If your chicken didn’t brown, you likely didn’t cook it on high enough heat, or the pieces were too large. I’ve never had someone report that issue! it might have been due to your pan too – I’m sorry about that!
Jessica
I’ve made both versions of this recipe (original and instant pot) and love it! It’s such a great healthy go to!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you enjoyed it both ways, Jessica!
Sarah
Loved this recipe! I followed the directions for stove top (non instant pot) and it turned out perfect! My sauce was not the same color, it was less orange and more of a tan color but it was delicious and part of a potluck clean eating family style dinner my sisters and I made together. I’ll make this again for sure. My only advice is to use bigger chunks of chicken because chicken shrinks down as it cooks! I love a healthy meal that leaves me feeling satisfied and not sick like I over ate.
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Sarah! The color will vary depending on your ingredients 🙂 You can definitely use bigger chunks of chicken! I prefer to keep them smaller so they cook evenly and don’t get that bouncy/rubbery texture chicken can get- but you totally can use bigger chicken pieces!
Marlene
Highly recommend this recipe for anyone looking for a delicious Asian inspired dish without all the added ingredients. I made this as one of my prepped meals for the week and it kept me looking forward to my packed lunch! Great way to stay on track without sacrificing flavor.
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Marlene! It’s perfect for meal prep!
Lana
Super delicious! Made this for meal prep and topped it with some chopped green onions. I was lazy with my ginger and blended it with the garlic and chicken broth so my sauce was more of a light tan than orange or brown. Still tasted good but for sure not as pretty. Adding this to my list of foods on regular rotation.
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Lana! The color of the sauce will depend on the exact brand of ingredients you use… but even if it’s brown/tan – it will still taste delicious!
Jen R
Super easy, simple, and delicious! The picky eaters in my family LOVED it and even at veggies without complaining with a drizzle of the sauce.
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Jen! So happy everyone enjoyed it.. even the veggies 🙂
Sheila
I made this dish and it was fantastic- thank you! I’d like to make it for a family member who is not consuming honey/sugar/maple syrup etc. Any ideas for a substitution? Thanks again!
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Sheila! So glad you liked it. You might be able to substitute date paste – although I haven’t tried it. Let me know if you do!
Melissa
Will definitely be making again!! Soo much flavor, even had my daughter going back for seconds!!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you liked it, Melissa! It’s one of our favorites for dinner too 🙂
Camille
So good! My family loved it. Such a good balance of sweet and savory, the sauce was light and delicious. Will be making this again and again.
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Camille! So glad you liked it 🙂
Venice
If I could give this more starts I would! This orange chicken is amazing and pretty easy but makes you feel like a bomb a** cook! This will be on regular rotation especially on weekends when you want something more fun! Also great as leftovers.
Venice
more *stars! I was too excited 😂
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you so much, Venice!! I really appreciate it 🙂 Glad you enjoyed it!
Ren
Very tasty and easy to make. I love how thorough the directions are. Very helpful!
The Clean Eating Couple
Thanks Ren!! So glad you like it!
Michaela M.
Love this super easy recipe. I made this and froze it for meals to grab and go. When I heat it up in between classes I have had comments on how good it smells and how they can’t believe I made it because it looks and smells like it came from a restaurant. I highly recommend, it is so yummy and not full of sugar, sodium, and isn’t fried like it is from a restaurant.
The Clean Eating Couple
Thank you Michaela! I’ve never tried freezing it so I’m so glad it worked for you! Love the idea of portioning it out for future meals 🙂
Nikki
This is a staple in our house! So easy to throw it in the instant pot and add some brown rice for a week’s worth of meals. I see a lot of comments about the sauce not thickening, you have to be patient, mine usually takes about 20 minutes before it as thick as I would like for it to be. So delicious and so simple!
The Clean Eating Couple
So glad you like it, Nikki! You’re totally right about the sauce – it will work if you’re patient!! 🙂