Greg'S Orange Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts glazed in a tangy orange sauce with mandarin oranges, perfect for a flavorful, family-friendly Chinese-inspired meal with bright citrus notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pre-mix flour, cinnamon, and parsley in a small container.
- Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a frying pan; add chicken and brown on both sides.
- Remove chicken from the pan.
- Add pre-mixed ingredients to the frying pan, along with the garlic. Stir chicken in slowly.
- Add orange juice and stir well; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium; cover and simmer for 50 minutes.
- Add mandarin oranges and simmer for 10 minutes more.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in orange juice and garlic for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a cornstarch slurry with a bit of water and add it to the sauce towards the end. For a different twist, try using lemon juice instead of orange juice for a tangy variation. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Greg's Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed broccoli or a fresh salad can complement the meal nicely. For a complete feast, consider serving it alongside Quick Pineapple Chicken for a delightful variety of flavors or a bowl of Spinach Egg Drop Soup to start.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of orange juice if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave portions in a covered bowl.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greg'S Orange Chicken contains roughly 776 calories, with 60g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (214% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (142% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1022mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is it okay to use bottled orange juice?
Bottled orange juice can be used, but freshly squeezed juice will provide a brighter, fresher flavor. If using bottled juice, choose one without added sugar for the best results.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the sauce while it simmers. You can also serve it with a side of Szechwan Chicken With Cashews for a spicy contrast.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).