Ground Orange Chicken Recipe

Introduction

If you love the sweet, tangy flavors of Panda Express Orange Chicken but want a healthier, quicker version, this Ground Orange Chicken recipe is the perfect solution. Using ground chicken keeps the dish lean and cooks in record time, while a homemade orange sauce gives you the same bright, zesty flavor without deep-frying.

This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a quick lunch. Serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. The combination of garlic, ginger, orange zest, and a slightly sweet, tangy sauce creates a bold, satisfying flavor your whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes
• Healthier Alternative: No frying, less oil, lean protein
• Big Flavor: Zesty orange sauce with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup, perfect for busy nights
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spice, or serve with your favorite grains
• Kid-Friendly: Sweet and slightly tangy without overwhelming heat

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 4 servings. Measurements are exact for accuracy.

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger root
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional for heat)

Sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 4 teaspoons soy sauce
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 5 tablespoons white vinegar
• Zest of 1/2 orange

Thickener

• 3 tablespoons water, divided
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or nonstick pan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Small bowl for sauce
• Zester or microplane for orange zest
• Measuring spoons and cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Orange Sauce

In a small bowl, combine rice wine, 2 tablespoons water, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, white vinegar, and orange zest. Stir until sugar dissolves and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture

In a separate small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon cornstarch in 1 tablespoon water. Set aside—this will thicken the sauce quickly at the end.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken and cook until a good crust forms on the bottom before breaking it apart. Continue cooking 2–3 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Add minced ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper to the chicken. Cook for about 10 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared orange sauce into the skillet. Bring to a boil, stirring to combine with the chicken.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan and stir immediately. Cook for just a few seconds until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Optionally garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

Tips & Variations

• Adjust Sweetness: Add more or less sugar depending on preference.
• Spicy Version: Increase crushed red pepper or add a splash of chili garlic sauce.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of orange juice along with the zest for more citrus depth.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is sweet, tangy, and savory with a slight kick from crushed red pepper. The chicken is tender, the sauce glossy and flavorful, and the orange zest adds a bright, fresh aroma.

Suggested Sides

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Quinoa for extra protein
• Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy
• Low-carb option: cauliflower rice

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 278 kcal
• Protein: 21 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Sodium: 407 mg
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Sugar: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 98 mg

This recipe is high-protein, moderately low in calories, and lower in fat compared to traditional fried orange chicken.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare the sauce and cornstarch mixture in advance.
• Cook chicken fully and store separately in airtight containers. Combine and reheat with sauce just before serving.
• This dish reheats well in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of ground chicken?

Yes, dice thighs into small pieces and follow the same cooking method. Adjust cooking time if needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

Mild by default. Increase crushed red pepper or add Sriracha for more heat.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to maintain sauce consistency.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas can be added during Step 5 for a more balanced meal.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time Required
Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
• Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro.
• Pair with steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
2. Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
3. Vegetable-Loaded: Include broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers in the pan with the sauce.
4. Extra Citrus: Add 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice with the zest for a brighter flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Chicken

Lean and high in protein, cooks quickly, and absorbs the orange sauce perfectly.

Orange Zest

Provides a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor that makes this dish taste bright and vibrant.

Sesame Oil

Adds subtle nuttiness and depth, complementing the sweet and tangy sauce.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Let the chicken form a slight crust before breaking apart for extra flavor.
• Stir cornstarch mixture quickly to avoid lumps.
• Cook garlic and ginger briefly to release fragrance without burning.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent dryness.

Freezing

Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	278 kcal
Protein	21 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Fat	13 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Fiber	0.2 g
Sugar	15 g

Dietary Notes: High-protein, lower fat, gluten-free option available, low-carb if served with cauliflower rice.

Expanded Conclusion

This Ground Orange Chicken recipe is a fast, flavorful, and healthier alternative to classic fried orange chicken. Ground chicken cooks quickly and absorbs the sweet, tangy orange sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or quick lunches.

With minimal prep, one pan, and big flavor, it proves that restaurant-style dishes can be made healthier and faster at home. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds, serve with your favorite side, and enjoy a bright, satisfying, and balanced meal in just 20 minutes.

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