Orange Ground Chicken

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Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly savory, Orange Ground Chicken is the quick-fix dinner that brings bold takeout flavor to your own kitchen. Made with lean ground chicken, a sticky-sweet orange glaze, and served over fluffy rice, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s a budget-friendly and healthier twist on classic orange chicken, ready in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients.

The sauce—made from fresh orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness—coats every bite of tender chicken for a flavor explosion. Topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, it adds crunch and color, making your plate just as visually satisfying as it is delicious.

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Ingredients for this Orange Ground Chicken

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (optional for depth)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
• Cooked white rice, for serving

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Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sesame oil. Once hot, crumble in the ground chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute or two until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic burn.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Stir the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and slowly pour it into the skillet, stirring constantly. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the orange ground chicken over steamed rice. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for crunch and added flavor.

Enjoy hot, and feel free to add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and works just as well in this recipe.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, a squirt of sriracha, or diced fresh chili to the sauce depending on your heat preference.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. Choose one with no added sugar.

What vegetables go well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or baby bok choy are all excellent additions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

Can I meal prep this?

Absolutely! Make a double batch and store in portioned containers with rice and veggies for an easy meal prep option.

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