Sometimes you just want something that feels a little indulgent without the heavy aftermath, and that’s where this healthy orange chicken steps in. It’s sweet, savory, and has that tangy kick we all secretly love, but it won’t weigh you down like takeout often does. I make this when I’m craving comfort food but still want to feel good about my choices. The chicken turns golden and tender, the sauce clings to each piece just enough, and the fresh orange zest makes your kitchen smell like you’ve got something fancy going on, even though it’s weeknight-easy. This recipe fits right in with my favorite low calorie dinner recipes. Whether you’re into low calorie dinners, low calorie recipes in general, or searching for low calorie chicken recipes that actually taste good, this one delivers. And if you’re someone who rotates between low calorie breakfast recipes and low calorie soup recipes to keep things balanced, think of this as the dish that makes sticking to that routine a whole lot easier.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe
3) Ingredients for Healthy Orange Chicken
4) How to Make Healthy Orange Chicken
5) Tips for Making Healthy Orange Chicken
6) Making Healthy Orange Chicken Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Healthy Orange Chicken
8) Try these Main Course next!
9) Healthy Orange Chicken
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

This healthy orange chicken fits perfectly into your list of low calorie dinner recipes without sacrificing taste.
It’s quick to prepare and uses simple, fresh ingredients you probably already have.
The sweet and tangy orange sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken pieces.
Great for weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a better-than-takeout dinner.

2) Easy Healthy Orange Chicken Recipe

I like recipes that feel special but don’t demand an entire afternoon in the kitchen. This healthy orange chicken does exactly that. It’s my go-to when I’m craving something bold and satisfying yet light enough to keep me on track with my low calorie dinner recipes.

There’s something about the way fresh orange juice and zest meet soy sauce and honey that makes the whole dish come alive. The balance is spot on—bright, savory, and just sweet enough to make you go back for seconds.

When I cook this, I think about how easy it is to skip the takeout menu and still get that satisfying flavor. It works for family dinners or meal prep, and it makes my kitchen smell like I’ve been working way harder than I actually have.

3) Ingredients for Healthy Orange Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: I use chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and stay tender.

Cornstarch: This gives the chicken that light crisp edge when it cooks without adding extra heaviness.

Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps the chicken brown evenly and adds a bit of richness.

Fresh Orange Juice: The base of the sauce—sweet, tangy, and full of fresh citrus flavor.

Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Brings a salty depth that balances the sweetness of the orange juice.

Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce coat the chicken.

Rice Vinegar: A little tang to round out the flavors.

Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives the sauce warmth and depth.

Fresh Ginger: Adds a gentle heat and aromatic kick.

Orange Zest: Intensifies the orange flavor and gives a fresh aroma.

Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat.

Green Onions: For garnish and a light onion flavor.

Sesame Seeds: A final touch that adds texture and visual appeal.

4) How to Make Healthy Orange Chicken

Step 1. Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch in a bowl until coated. This helps lock in moisture and gives a nice golden crust.

Step 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3. In another bowl, whisk orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, orange zest, and red pepper flakes until smooth.

Step 4. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir well and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5. Remove from heat and top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

5) Tips for Making Healthy Orange Chicken

Pat your chicken dry before coating it in cornstarch to get a better sear. If it’s too damp, it won’t brown as nicely.

Fresh orange juice makes a noticeable difference here. The flavor is brighter and fresher than bottled juice.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook a minute longer after adding it to the skillet, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t reduce too much.

6) Making Healthy Orange Chicken Ahead of Time

This dish holds up well for meal prep. I make a batch on Sunday, store it in portions, and it’s ready to heat for lunch or dinner all week.

Store the sauce separately if you like a fresher finish when reheating. That way, you can warm the chicken first and pour the sauce over just before eating.

If you plan to freeze it, let the chicken cool fully, store in freezer-safe containers, and thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stove.

7) Storing Leftover Healthy Orange Chicken

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. I like to reheat it on the stove over low heat to keep the chicken tender.

Microwaving works if you’re short on time, but add a splash of water to keep the sauce from getting too thick.

For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to two months.

8) Try these Main Course next!

9) Healthy Orange Chicken