Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal: a sensational **Ground Orange Chicken** recipe that promises a burst of flavor in every bite! This dish is a vibrant, easy-to-make, and incredibly satisfying take on the classic Chinese takeout staple, designed to bring gourmet tastes to your home kitchen without the fuss. Forget the lengthy process of breading and frying chicken; our innovative approach uses ground chicken, making this a truly “fake-out take-out” experience that’s faster, simpler, and just as delicious.
Why Ground Chicken is Your Weeknight Hero
Traditional orange chicken, while undeniably delicious, often involves multiple steps of battering and deep-frying chicken pieces, which can be time-consuming and messy. This recipe ingeniously streamlines the process by utilizing ground chicken, transforming it into a remarkably quick and effortlessly satisfying meal. Ground chicken cooks rapidly and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something extraordinary but need it on the table fast.
Opting for ground chicken not only cuts down on preparation time but also offers a lighter alternative to deep-fried versions. It’s an excellent source of lean protein, contributing to a balanced meal without compromising on taste. This approach allows the star—the zesty orange sauce—to truly shine, coating every morsel of chicken with its irresistible sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy glaze. It’s the ideal solution for anyone looking to enjoy the comforting flavors of Chinese takeout with a homemade touch that’s both convenient and wholesome.
Crafting the Perfect Orange Glaze: Key Ingredients Explained
The magic of this Ground Orange Chicken recipe lies in its simple yet incredibly flavorful sauce. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s signature taste profile:
- Orange Marmalade: This is the heart of our orange flavor. Marmalade brings a deeper, more complex citrus note than plain orange juice, often with tiny pieces of orange rind that add a pleasant texture and a hint of bitter counterpoint to the sweetness. If you don’t have marmalade, orange preserves can be used as a close substitute, though they typically lack the rind bits.
- Sweet BBQ Sauce: A surprising but brilliant addition, sweet BBQ sauce provides a rich, savory base and contributes to the glaze’s desirable thickness and glossy finish. Brands with a honey BBQ flavor work exceptionally well, amplifying the sweet and smoky notes that complement the orange beautifully.
- Ground Ginger: This aromatic spice is essential for achieving that authentic Asian-inspired flavor profile. Ground ginger infuses the sauce with a warm, slightly peppery kick that balances the sweetness and adds depth.
- Red Chili Pepper Flakes: For those who appreciate a touch of heat, red chili pepper flakes deliver a gentle warmth that elevates the dish. This ingredient is entirely optional, allowing you to customize the spice level to your preference.
Combining these elements creates a versatile sauce that’s both vibrant and comforting, making this ground orange chicken recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Perfect Ground Orange Chicken Every Time
Achieving restaurant-quality flavor and texture with this simple Ground Orange Chicken recipe is easier than you think. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Choose Your BBQ Sauce Wisely: The type of BBQ sauce significantly impacts the final flavor. Opt for a sweeter variety, such as a honey BBQ sauce, to harmonize with the orange marmalade. Avoid overly smoky or vinegary sauces, as they might overpower the delicate orange notes.
- Marmalade vs. Preserves: While both orange marmalade and preserves work, marmalade typically includes small pieces of orange rind, which contribute a subtle bitterness and textural interest. If using preserves, the flavor will be slightly smoother and sweeter. Both are delicious, so use what you have on hand or prefer!
- Experiment with Ground Meats: This recipe is incredibly adaptable! While ground chicken is fantastic, feel free to substitute with other ground meats. Ground turkey offers a similar lean profile, while ground pork can add a richer flavor. I haven’t personally tried it with ground beef, but I believe it would also be a delicious alternative, bringing its own unique depth to the dish.
- Controlling Chicken Texture: How you break up the ground chicken impacts the dish’s mouthfeel. For a dish that mixes seamlessly with rice, aim for smaller, finely crumbled pieces. If you prefer a more substantial bite, larger chunks of ground chicken can be a great option, especially if you’re serving it in lettuce wraps or as a standalone protein.
- Versatile Serving Options: This Ground Orange Chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with classic white or brown rice for a hearty meal. For a lighter, low-carb alternative, serve it over cauliflower rice or a bed of steamed vegetables like broccoli or snow peas. For a fun, interactive meal, try wrapping it in crisp lettuce leaves, creating a delicious and refreshing lettuce wrap.
- Adjusting the Heat: Red chili pepper flakes are used to introduce a pleasant, subtle warmth. If you prefer a milder dish, you can easily reduce the amount or omit them entirely. For those who love extra spice, feel free to add a bit more, or even a dash of sriracha to the sauce mixture for an extra kick!
Essential Ingredients for Your Shopping List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delectable Ground Orange Chicken. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need:
- Oil (canola or olive oil recommended)
- Ground chicken (1 pound)
- Orange marmalade (1 cup)
- Sweet BBQ sauce (½ cup)
- Ground ginger (½ teaspoon)
- Red chili pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional)
- Sesame seeds (½ teaspoon)
- Green onions (2, sliced, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide: How to Make Ground Orange Chicken
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare a mouthwatering Ground Orange Chicken dish that rivals your favorite takeout. This recipe is designed for ease and efficiency, ensuring a delicious meal without complex techniques.
- Prepare the Signature Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the orange marmalade, sweet BBQ sauce, ground ginger, and red chili pepper flakes (if using). Whisk all ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended and smooth. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later use. This ensures all the delicious flavors are ready to meld with the chicken.
- Cook the Ground Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your chosen oil (canola or olive oil are great for their neutral flavor). Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground chicken. Break up the chicken with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully crumbled and no longer shows any pink. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine and Thicken the Sauce: Pour the prepared marmalade mixture directly into the skillet with the cooked ground chicken. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces evenly with the luscious orange sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce heats through and begins to thicken to a beautiful, glossy glaze. The goal is for the sauce to cling nicely to the chicken.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sesame seeds, which add a delightful nutty crunch and visual appeal. Transfer the Ground Orange Chicken to your serving dish. Garnish generously with freshly sliced green onions for a pop of color and fresh, mild onion flavor. Serve immediately over warm cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice are all excellent choices) or nestled in crisp lettuce wraps for a lighter option. Enjoy your incredibly flavorful homemade meal!
Storage and Meal Prep for Convenience
This Ground Orange Chicken recipe is fantastic for meal prepping or simply enjoying delicious leftovers. Proper storage ensures your dish stays fresh and flavorful for future meals.
- Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers, allow the Ground Orange Chicken to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, you have a couple of convenient options. For individual servings, simply microwave until heated through, stirring halfway for even warmth. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick, and stir frequently until it’s warmed throughout.
- Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the texture of ground chicken and the type of sauce, freezing this meal is generally not recommended. The sauce can sometimes separate or become watery upon thawing and reheating, and the chicken’s texture might suffer. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the refrigerator within a few days.
Exciting Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
While delicious on its own, here are some ideas to elevate your Ground Orange Chicken and tailor it to your taste:
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and texture by stirring in some cooked vegetables during the last few minutes of simmering. Steamed broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or shredded carrots would all be excellent additions.
- Garnish Galore: Beyond green onions and sesame seeds, consider fresh cilantro or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or cashews could also add a delightful crunch.
- Sweet and Sour Twist: For an extra layer of tanginess, add a teaspoon of rice vinegar to the sauce mixture. A tiny bit of pineapple juice can also enhance the fruity notes.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your BBQ sauce and marmalade are certified gluten-free. This recipe is naturally gluten-free with the right ingredient choices, making it accessible for more diners.
- Spice It Up: If you’re a heat enthusiast, consider adding a finely minced fresh red chili (like a bird’s eye chili) along with the ground chicken, or a dash of hot chili oil when serving.
Craving More Asian-Inspired Recipes?
If you loved this easy Ground Orange Chicken, you’ll definitely want to explore more of our quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dishes:
- Easy General Tso’s Chicken
- Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Air Fryer Orange Chicken
- Orange Chicken Pasta Salad
- Crock Pot Sweet & Sour Chicken
- Asian Slaw
Ground Orange Chicken
This tasty Ground Orange Chicken recipe is an easy, delicious weeknight meal. It’s a fun, fast and much simpler take on traditional Orange Chicken!
10 minutes
15 minutes
25 minutes
4
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon canola or olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- ½ cup sweet BBQ sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds
- 2 sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the marmalade, BBQ sauce, ginger, and pepper flakes until well combined. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground chicken. Cook until chicken is crumbled and no longer pink.
- Stir the marmalade mixture into the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until the sauce is heated through and thickened. Stir in the sesame seeds and remove from heat.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately over cooked rice or in lettuce wraps.
Video
Notes
- You’ll want to use a sweet BBQ sauce for this recipe as it is supposed to have a sweet flavor. Honey BBQ is a good option here.
- You can use orange marmalade or preserves. They are essentially the same thing except marmalade usually has a bit of the orange rind in it.
- This recipe is versatile; ground turkey or pork would be excellent substitutes for chicken.
- Break up your chicken pieces as small or as large as you like, depending on your preferred serving style.
- Serve this over white rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a fun and lighter twist, try wrapping this up in fresh lettuce leaves.
- Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. If you prefer a milder dish, you can easily leave them out.
Main Course
American
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 68g |
Protein: 21g |
Fat: 13g |
Sodium: 483mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 60g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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