Orange Chicken Sauce

Make a bright, savory orange chicken sauce with fresh citrus, garlic, and a glossy finish. Perfect for weeknight chicken dinners and meal prep.

This orange chicken sauce is a lively, savory, and lightly sweet sauce that brings fresh citrus flavor to tender chicken. It is easy to prepare, thickens beautifully, and pairs well with rice, vegetables, or noodles. Ideal for a quick family dinner with a bright homemade touch.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound cooked or pan-seared chicken pieces
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or green onion for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Pour in the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and vinegar, then stir well.
5. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water until smooth.
6. Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and simmer for 2 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Add the cooked or pan-seared chicken pieces and toss until fully coated in the orange sauce.
9. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes more so the flavors blend.
10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onion.