Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Flavorful and Easy Dish
Looking for a tasty meal that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further than my Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry! This dish combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty sauce that will make your taste buds dance. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delightful dinner that pleases everyone. Get ready to enjoy vibrant flavors and effortless cooking—let’s dive into the recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This stir fry can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Vibrant Flavors: The combination of orange juice and zest with soy sauce creates a deliciously tangy and sweet flavor profile.
- Colorful and Nutritious: Loaded with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, this dish is packed with nutrients.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
This dish shines with its fresh and vibrant ingredients. You need chicken breast as the main protein. Cut it into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly. Fresh vegetables bring color and crunch. The red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot add both taste and health.
Aromatics like minced garlic and ginger boost the flavor. For the sauce, mix soy sauce, fresh orange juice, zest, and honey. This mix gives the dish a sweet and tangy kick. The cornstarch slurry is key for thickening the sauce, making it cling to the chicken and veggies perfectly.
Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds for a nutty finish. Don’t forget the green onions for a fresh touch on top. These ingredients make your Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry both tasty and fun to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing chicken and vegetable ingredients
Start with 1 pound of chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Next, wash and slice 1 red bell pepper. Cut it into thin strips. Then, take 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 carrot. Julienne the carrot into thin matchsticks. Set these veggies aside. This mix adds color and crunch to your dish.
2. Preparing the sauce mix
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice. Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest and 1 tablespoon of honey. This mix gives your stir fry a sweet and tangy flavor. Finally, whisk in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. This slurry will help thicken your sauce later.
Cooking Instructions
1. Stir-frying the chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes. Stir often until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cooking the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, julienned carrot, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 inch of minced ginger. Stir-fry these for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want the veggies to be tender but still crisp. This keeps them bright and fresh.
3. Combining the chicken with the sauce and vegetables
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the orange sauce over everything. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
Final Touches
1. Thickening the sauce
Keep cooking until the sauce thickens slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the chicken and veggies well. This adds a nice gloss and richness to the dish.
2. Garnishing the dish
Once done, sprinkle sesame seeds over the stir-fry. Mix well to distribute the seeds. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped green onions. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, orange juice, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest will elevate the taste of the sauce compared to bottled versions.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the stir fry over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal that complements the flavors.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- Optimal cooking temperatures: Heat your skillet or wok to medium-high. This helps the chicken sear nicely.
- Timing for chicken and vegetables: Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes. Then, stir-fry the veggies for 4-5 minutes. This keeps them crisp.
Flavor Enhancements
- Suggested spices and seasonings: Try adding crushed red pepper for some heat. A dash of black pepper also boosts flavor.
- Alternative sweeteners: If you want less sugar, use maple syrup or agave. They add a nice touch without being too sweet.
Presentation Suggestions
- Plating ideas for visual appeal: Serve the stir-fry in a bowl, topped with green onions. Use a colorful plate to make the dish pop.
- Suggested side dishes to serve: Pair it with steamed rice or quinoa. They soak up the sauce well and balance the meal.
Variations
Alternative Protein Sources
You can swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Tofu works well for a vegetarian choice. It absorbs flavors and adds protein. For shrimp, use peeled and deveined shrimp. They cook quickly and add a nice texture.
Different Vegetable Combinations
Feel free to change up the veggies. Try seasonal options like snap peas or zucchini. You can add or remove ingredients based on your taste. Want more crunch? Add water chestnuts. Prefer fewer carbs? Omit the carrots.
Sauce Adjustments
You can adjust the sauce to suit your taste. If you like heat, add chili sauce for spice. For a less sweet version, cut back on honey. This way, you can create a sauce that’s just right for you.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry fresh, follow these steps:
- Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken juicy and the veggies crisp.
- Freezing: If you want to save it for later, freeze the stir fry. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:
- Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir gently for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave Method: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a lid or damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Safety Tips: Always check that the chicken is hot all the way through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Enjoy your meal safely!
FAQs
Common Questions about Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option. Coconut aminos is another good choice. Both options give a nice flavor without soy.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use tamari instead of soy sauce. Make sure other ingredients do not contain gluten.
How long does Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry last in the fridge?
It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results.
Additional Cooking Queries
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the sauce and store it in the fridge. This saves time when cooking.
What’s the best way to cut chicken for stir fry?
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and easy eating.
Serving Suggestions
What to serve with Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry?
Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Steamed veggies also pair well.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, you can serve it cold. It makes a great salad topping or lunch option.
In this article, we explored how to make Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry. We covered all the ingredients, from chicken and veggies to the sauce mix. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and tips for the best results. We also discussed variations, storage tips, and answered common questions.
Now, you can create a delicious, customizable dish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Make this meal your own, and savor every bite. Cooking should be fun and tasty!
Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, julienned carrot, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, and cornstarch slurry.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the orange sauce over the mixture, stirring well until everything is evenly coated.
Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Once done, sprinkle sesame seeds over the stir-fry and mix well.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
Orange Sesame Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- to taste green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, julienned carrot, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, and cornstarch slurry.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the orange sauce over the mixture, stirring well until everything is evenly coated.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Once done, sprinkle sesame seeds over the stir-fry and mix well.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
![- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed - 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup shredded carrots - 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color) - 2 green onions, sliced - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 2 tablespoons maple syrup - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon minced garlic - 1 teaspoon grated ginger - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish Each serving of the Teriyaki Tofu Buddha Bowl is packed with nutrients. You get about 400 calories, 20 grams of protein, 50 grams of carbs, and 15 grams of fats. This bowl is a great balance of macronutrients. The ingredients offer many health benefits. Tofu serves as a fantastic source of plant protein. Brown rice or quinoa adds fiber and essential minerals. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, while carrots provide beta-carotene. Bell peppers can boost your immune system as well. Green onions add flavor and nutrients without many calories. Eating this bowl can support a healthy diet and keep you energized. The blend of flavors and textures makes every bite enjoyable. It's not just a meal; it’s a feast for your body and spirit. For the full recipe, check the details above. First, press the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap it in a clean towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. This helps the tofu absorb flavors better. After pressing, cut the tofu into small cubes. Next, make the teriyaki marinade. In a bowl, mix together: - 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) - 2 tablespoons maple syrup - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon minced garlic - 1 teaspoon grated ginger Gently add the tofu cubes to the marinade and stir to coat. Let the tofu soak in the flavors for at least 15 minutes. While the tofu marinates, cook your grains. You can use either brown rice or quinoa. Follow the package instructions for cooking. For perfect grains, use a 2:1 ratio of water to grains. Here’s a tip: After cooking, let the grains sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps them fluff up nicely. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the broccoli and bell pepper for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still crisp. Then, add 1 cup of shredded carrots and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the vegetables aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and heat it over medium-high. Carefully place the marinated tofu cubes in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Turn the tofu occasionally until it is golden brown and slightly crispy. The right oil helps achieve that perfect texture. Now, it’s time to put everything together! Start with a base of cooked brown rice or quinoa in a deep bowl. Layer the sautéed vegetables on top of the grains. Finally, add the crispy teriyaki tofu. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the ingredients in sections. This adds color and makes the dish more appealing. You can also sprinkle some sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and crunch. Enjoy your Teriyaki Tofu Buddha Bowl! For the complete recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. To make your Teriyaki Tofu Buddha Bowl burst with flavor, focus on your marinade. A great mix includes: - 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free - 2 tablespoons maple syrup - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon minced garlic - 1 teaspoon grated ginger Letting the tofu soak in this marinade for at least 15 minutes enhances the taste. You can even marinate it longer for a stronger flavor. When cooking, use medium-high heat to get a nice sear on your tofu. This step locks in the flavor and gives it a delightful crunch. Stir-fry the veggies quickly. This keeps them vibrant and crisp. A beautiful bowl is all about colors and textures. Here’s how to make it pop: - Start with a base of brown rice or quinoa. - Layer the sautéed veggies in sections. - Place the crispy tofu on top. - Add a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds for crunch. This layout not only looks good but also makes it easy to enjoy each bite. Drizzle a bit of extra teriyaki sauce over the top for shine and flavor. You can easily change this bowl to fit your taste. Here are some ideas: - Swap tofu for tempeh or chickpeas for added protein. - Try adding different vegetables like spinach, corn, or snap peas. - For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. - For a low-carb version, consider cauliflower rice instead of grains. These simple swaps keep your meals fresh and exciting while catering to your dietary needs. For the full recipe, check out my detailed guide. {{image_2}} You can switch tofu for other proteins. Tempeh is a great choice. It has a nutty flavor and a firm texture. Chickpeas are another option; they add protein and fiber. For tempeh, cook it for about 7-10 minutes until golden. If using chickpeas, add them to the pan for just a few minutes to warm up. Don’t feel stuck with just brown rice. Quinoa is a fantastic alternative. It cooks quickly and is packed with protein. Farro adds a chewy texture and a nutty taste. If you want a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice. Each grain brings different health benefits. Quinoa is high in protein, while farro has fiber. The teriyaki sauce can be boosted with spices. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also stir in some orange zest for a citrus kick. For toppings, consider avocado for creaminess or nuts for crunch. These little touches make your bowl unique and tasty. Explore various toppings to find your favorite mix. To keep your Teriyaki Tofu Buddha Bowl fresh, store it in airtight containers. Glass containers work best as they do not absorb odors. Make sure the bowl is cool before sealing it. This helps avoid moisture build-up, which can make the food soggy. Store any leftover rice or quinoa separately to keep them fluffy. Reheat your tofu and vegetables gently. The microwave is quick, but it can make the tofu soft. Instead, try using a skillet. Heat a little oil over medium heat, add the tofu and veggies, and stir until hot. This keeps the texture nice and tasty. You can also add a splash of water to create steam and warm everything evenly. If you want to freeze your Buddha bowl, separate the components first. Freeze the tofu and cooked grains in different bags. This way, they stay fresh longer. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, use the skillet method to ensure everything is hot and tasty. You can even add some fresh veggies during reheating for added crunch. You can use tempeh, chickpeas, or seitan. Tempeh has a nutty taste. It cooks fast and adds protein. Chickpeas add a hearty texture. You can roast them for crunch. Seitan works well for a chewy bite. Cook it in the same way as tofu. Homemade teriyaki sauce lasts about a week in the fridge. Store it in a clean jar. Make sure to seal it tight. If you notice any odd smell, throw it away. You can freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw it when you need it. Yes, you can prep this bowl ahead of time. Cook grains and chop veggies in advance. Store them in airtight containers. The flavors will blend well if left overnight. Just add the tofu before serving. This keeps it crispy and fresh. Yes, you can easily make it gluten-free. Use tamari instead of soy sauce. Choose gluten-free grains like quinoa. All the veggies are naturally gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy it without worry. You can add sriracha or chili flakes for heat. Mix it into the teriyaki sauce. For a different flavor, try fresh jalapeños. You can also serve with spicy sesame oil. Adjust the spice to your taste for a kick! This blog post detailed how to create a tasty Teriyaki Tofu Buddha Bowl. We covered ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips for flavor and presentation. You learned about storage and variations for customization. Now, you can make this dish your own. Experiment with flavors, grains, and proteins. Enjoy the health benefits while satisfying your taste buds. This bowl is not just a meal; it's a canvas for your creativity. Happy cooking!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/885aa078-9488-4511-acaf-c3412a5f03ff-768x768.webp)
