Description

This Orange Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick, vibrant, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something better than takeout. Tender pieces of chicken are stir-fried with colorful veggies in a tangy, sweet, and savory orange sesame sauce that clings to every bite. With its zesty citrus notes, rich umami flavor, and a touch of toasted sesame, this dish is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil for cooking)

For the Orange Sesame Sauce:

½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tablespoons water)
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, but recommended for brightness)

For the Stir-Fry:

1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Set aside while you prepare the sauce and veggies.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sesame Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and orange zest.
Dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce mixture. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon of sesame oil if needed.
Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the sliced green onions.

Step 5: Add the Sauce & Finish

Pour the prepared orange sesame sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Remove from heat once the sauce is glossy and the dish is well combined.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional green onions if desired.
Serve hot over steamed rice, brown rice, or noodles.

Notes

Cut Chicken Evenly – Uniform pieces cook more evenly and quickly.

High Heat = Crispier Chicken – Stir-fry on medium-high to high heat for the best texture and flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Veggies – Keep them bright and crisp for a fresh bite.

Use Fresh Orange Juice – It gives the sauce a brighter, more authentic flavor compared to bottled juice.

Prep Before You Start – Stir-fry moves fast, so have everything chopped and ready to go before you start cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired