Mediterranean Orange Chicken
This Mediterranean-style Orange Chicken is a fusion of bold citrus flavor with a savory, slightly spicy glaze. Unlike traditional fried versions, this recipe is lighter, easy to prepare, and rich in zesty orange flavor, with hints of garlic, herbs, and a touch of honey. Finished with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s a vibrant main dish you can serve over rice, couscous, or quinoa.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour (for a light coating)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the orange sauce:
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from 2–3 oranges)
2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup (adds color and depth)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp chili flakes or harissa (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Toppings:
Toasted sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
Optional: chopped parsley or mint for a fresh twist
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch (or flour), salt, pepper, and paprika.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes), turning occasionally. Remove and set aside.
Make the Orange Sauce:
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.
Add orange juice, soy sauce, honey, tomato paste, garlic, oregano, and chili flakes. Stir well.
Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir into the sauce.
Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (about 3–5 minutes).
Combine & Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the orange sauce.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve over quinoa, couscous, or fluffy rice.
Add steamed broccoli or roasted veggies on the side for a full meal.
Tips:
Use Fresh Orange Juice:
Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor and natural sweetness. Avoid using sugary bottled juice if possible.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Cook the chicken in batches if needed to get a proper sear and avoid steaming it.
Adjust Sauce Thickness:
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice. If too thin, simmer a bit longer or add more cornstarch slurry.
Marinate for More Flavor:
For extra depth, marinate the chicken in a little orange juice, olive oil, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
Crispier Option:
For a crispier finish, toss the cornstarch-coated chicken into an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Variations:
Mediterranean Herb Twist:
Add fresh herbs like chopped mint, parsley, or basil at the end for a Mediterranean freshness.
Spice It Up:
Add harissa, Aleppo pepper, or smoked paprika to the sauce for a deeper, spicier profile.
Citrus Swap:
Mix in lemon or blood orange juice for a unique flavor variation.
Sweetness Change:
Replace honey with date syrup or pomegranate molasses for a deeper Middle Eastern sweetness.
Vegetarian Version:
Swap chicken for roasted cauliflower or crispy tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth (if used).
Low-Carb Friendly:
Serve over cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini noodles instead of regular grains.
Add Crunch:
Toss in roasted nuts like slivered almonds or pine nuts before serving for a satisfying crunch.
Q&A
Q: Can I make Mediterranean Orange Chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes! This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I bake or air fry the chicken instead of pan-frying?
A: Absolutely. You can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes for a crispier, lighter version.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Try couscous, rice, quinoa, or even orzo pasta. For a lighter option, pair it with a Mediterranean salad, grilled veggies, or cauliflower rice.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes—just use tamari instead of soy sauce, and make sure your cornstarch and other seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: ~320
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Sugar: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: ~500mg
Note: Nutrition will vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Orange Chicken is a bold, zesty, and vibrant dish that brings together the best of citrus sweetness, warm spices, and savory herbs. It’s a refreshing upgrade from traditional takeout-style orange chicken — lighter, cleaner, and packed with Mediterranean soul. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger feast, it’s guaranteed to impress.