Comforting Orange Peel Chicken You’ll Love in 30 Minutes

Name: Comforting Orange Peel Chicken You’ll Love in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 orange, zested and juiced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

June 10, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m thrilled to share one of my absolute favorite comfort food recipes: orange peel chicken. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken pieces tossed in a zesty, fragrant orange sauce that just warms the heart. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone came running to the table with big smiles. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, and I just love how easy it is to whip up on a weeknight!

orange peel chicken - detail 1

What I adore about orange peel chicken is how quickly you can prepare it. With just a little marinating time and some simple cooking, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner after a long day or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making your delicious orange peel chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 orange, zested and juiced (this adds a lovely brightness to the dish)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (this helps to tenderize the chicken and thicken the sauce)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking; feel free to use olive oil if you prefer)
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color will do—red, green, or yellow add great flavor and color!)
1 onion, sliced (I love using yellow or white onions for a sweeter taste)
1 tablespoon ginger, minced (fresh ginger gives a wonderful warmth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1 tablespoon sugar (this balances the tanginess of the orange)
Salt and pepper to taste (always adjust to your preference)

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only full of flavor but also comforting and satisfying. You can easily find everything in your local grocery store, and many of these items you might already have at home. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Orange Peel Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious orange peel chicken! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a fragrant, comforting meal before you know it!

Marinate the Chicken

First things first, let’s marinate the chicken! In a large bowl, combine your chicken pieces with the soy sauce, orange juice, and cornstarch. This step is crucial because marinating not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken. Give it a good mix so that every piece is coated nicely. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. While you’re waiting, you can prep your veggies—it’s a great way to save time!

Cooking the Chicken

Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. I like to use a non-stick skillet for this, as it helps everything cook evenly. Add the minced ginger and garlic to the pan, stirring for about a minute until they’re fragrant. Be careful not to burn them—trust me, that can happen quickly! Now, add the marinated chicken to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. You’ll want to give each piece some space so it can brown nicely. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown all over.

Adding Vegetables

Next, we’ll add in the sliced bell pepper and onion. I love the splash of color they bring to the dish! Stir them in and cook for another 5 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them; the goal is for the vegetables to become tender but still have a bit of crunch. If they start to look a little soft, that’s your cue they’re ready for the next step!

Final Touches

Now, for the finishing touches! Stir in the orange zest and sugar, letting them meld into the chicken and veggies for about 2 more minutes. This is where the magic happens—the zest will infuse everything with that delightful citrus flavor. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a quick stir, and just like that, your orange peel chicken is ready to be served warm. Doesn’t that sound easy? You’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This orange peel chicken recipe has so much going for it, and I can’t wait for you to discover all the reasons to love it! Here are just a few benefits that make this dish a favorite in my home:

Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Full of Flavor: The combination of orange, ginger, and garlic creates a bright and savory taste that’s simply irresistible.
Comforting and Satisfying: This dish warms you up and provides a sense of home with every bite.
Easy Cleanup: One pan is all you need for cooking, making cleanup a breeze!
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.

Once you try this dish, I’m sure it’ll become a regular on your dinner table, just like it has in mine! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Tips for Success

Getting your orange peel chicken just right is all about a few simple tips that make a big difference. I’ve learned a thing or two over the years, so let me share my best advice to ensure your dish turns out perfectly!

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure there’s enough space in the pan. If it’s too crowded, the chicken won’t brown properly and will steam instead. Cook in batches if necessary!
Check for Doneness: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to cut a piece open. It should be opaque and no longer pink in the center. You can also use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is the safe internal temperature for chicken.
Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even the night before. The longer it sits, the more flavor it will soak up!
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving. If you find it needs a little more zing, don’t hesitate to add a splash more soy sauce or a pinch of salt!
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add whatever veggies you have on hand. Snap peas, carrots, or even broccoli work wonderfully in this dish, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, avoid using powdered versions—they just don’t compare!

With these tips in your back pocket, I’m confident you’ll create a delicious orange peel chicken that your family will love! Happy cooking!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

When it comes to making orange peel chicken, the ingredients you choose can really elevate the dish. Here are some notes and substitutions that might help you tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary needs:

Chicken: While I use chicken breast for a lean option, you can absolutely use skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier result. They have more fat, which keeps the meat tender and moist during cooking.
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, tamari is a fantastic substitute. It has a similar flavor profile and works beautifully in this dish.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil works well, but if you enjoy a bit more flavor, feel free to use sesame oil or olive oil. Just remember that sesame oil has a stronger taste, so use it sparingly!
Bell Pepper: I love using colorful bell peppers for their sweetness and crunch, but you can swap them out for other vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or even snap peas for a different flavor and texture.
Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness, but red onions add a nice color and a sharper taste. If you want something milder, green onions or shallots are great substitutes too.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic bring a wonderful aroma and warmth. If you’re in a pinch, you can use powdered forms, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. I highly recommend sticking with fresh if possible!
Orange: If you don’t have a fresh orange on hand, orange juice can work in a pinch, although I find that the zest really adds a nice touch. You could also try substituting with lemon or lime for a different citrus twist, but the flavor will change.

These substitutions can help you customize your orange peel chicken to suit your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Enjoy experimenting, and don’t hesitate to make this dish your own!

Nutritional Information

As you prepare to enjoy this comforting orange peel chicken, it’s always good to have a sense of the nutritional values. Here’s a general estimate of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose or any substitutions you make. It’s always a good idea to check your own ingredients for a more accurate count. Enjoy this dish knowing it’s not just delicious, but also nourishing for you and your loved ones!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve prepared your delightful orange peel chicken, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create a complete meal! I love pairing this dish with a few simple sides that really enhance the flavors and make for a satisfying dining experience.

Steamed Rice: A classic choice! Fluffy white or brown rice soaks up that delicious orange sauce beautifully. You could also use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist.
Noodles: If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try serving the chicken over cooked noodles. Rice noodles or even whole grain spaghetti work wonderfully to catch all that flavor.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Keep it colorful and healthy by tossing together some quick stir-fried vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, and carrots add a lovely crunch and pair nicely with the chicken.
Side Salad: A fresh salad can lighten up the meal. I recommend a simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness complements the zesty chicken perfectly!
Spring Rolls: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve some veggie spring rolls on the side. They add a fun, crispy texture and are great for dipping in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.

These sides not only elevate your orange peel chicken but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving, and get ready for a delightful feast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious orange peel chicken, you might find yourself with some leftovers—and that’s a great thing! This dish keeps well, and with a few simple steps, you can store and reheat it to enjoy again later.

To store your orange peel chicken, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh and flavorful for you. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and it should be good for up to 2 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them properly is key to keeping that wonderful flavor and texture. If you’re reheating from the fridge, you can simply place the chicken in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a little bit of oil to prevent sticking, and stir occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

If you’ve frozen your chicken, the best way to reheat it is to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, follow the same stovetop method mentioned above. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it! Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of your orange peel chicken whenever the craving strikes. Happy eating!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.