Instant Pot Orange Chicken Recipe: A Healthier Twist on a Beloved Classic

Are you in search of an easy yet delicious orange chicken recipe that’s not only tasty but also healthier than typical takeout options? This Instant Pot Orange Chicken recipe is just what you need! With its combination of lean protein and a sweet and tangy sauce, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your home kitchen while saving you time and effort.

Why You’ll Adore This Healthier Orange Chicken

There’s something undeniably appealing about the sweet and savory flavors found in traditional Chinese takeout. However, many of these dishes can be loaded with calories and unhealthy ingredients. This homemade orange chicken recipe allows you to indulge in the flavors you love while using fresh, wholesome ingredients.

By incorporating fresh orange juice, coconut aminos, garlic, and ginger into the sauce, you’ll enjoy a naturally sweet and umami-rich flavor profile. Additionally, for a pop of color and freshness, consider garnishing your dish with cilantro and green onions. This orange chicken can be easily served over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative, or simply enjoyed on its own.

The Convenience of the Instant Pot

One of the standout features of this orange chicken recipe is that it’s prepared entirely in the Instant Pot, which simplifies the cooking process and minimizes cleanup. Gone are the days of frying chicken in oil or standing over a stove for extended periods. Instead, the Instant Pot elevates the chicken, infusing it with a luscious, zesty sauce in mere minutes.

The Result

You can expect tender chicken pieces enveloped in a sticky, flavorful glaze that rivals anything you’d find from your favorite takeout place. The combination of quick preparation and easy cleanup makes this dish a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when time is limited.

Why the Instant Pot Duo Mini is Ideal for This Orange Chicken Recipe

The Instant Pot Duo Mini is an exceptional kitchen appliance for whipping up this orange chicken recipe. Its compact design and multifunctional capabilities allow you to pressure cook, sauté, and keep meals warm, all in one pot. This model also boasts an Amazon’s Choice badge, indicating high customer satisfaction and reliability. It’s an essential tool for streamlining your meal prep while ensuring delicious, tender results each time you cook.

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker Details

• 7-in-1 Functionality: This appliance can pressure cook, slow cook, function as a rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan, and food warmer.
• Quick One-Touch Cooking: It features 13 customizable Smart Programs for various dishes, including ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, and desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Orange Chicken

To prepare this delicious orange chicken dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, plus zest for added flavor
• 2 ½ tablespoons coconut aminos (a soy sauce alternative)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 ½ teaspoons all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free variant
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Orange Chicken in the Instant Pot

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

Start by placing the cubed chicken breast into the Instant Pot. In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, zest, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Mix well, then pour this flavorful sauce over the chicken in the pot.

Step 2: Cook Under Pressure

Seal the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “sealing.” Select the manual or pressure cook setting and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release to safely vent the steam.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot. Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside on a plate. Add the flour or arrowroot powder to the remaining sauce in the pot. Whisk well until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the thickened sauce and stir to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Serve the dish on plates, garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Pair it with your choice of rice or low-carb cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

A Healthier Alternative to Takeout

Next time you find yourself craving orange chicken from your favorite Chinese restaurant, consider skipping the delivery and preparing this nutritious version at home. Not only will you enjoy a flavorful meal packed with protein, but you’ll also appreciate how straightforward and quick it is to prepare.

With the ease of the Instant Pot and the bright flavors of citrus, garlic, and ginger, this orange chicken recipe demonstrates that homemade meals can be just as satisfying—if not more so—than eating out.

Explore More Culinary Delights

If you enjoyed making this orange chicken recipe, consider expanding your culinary repertoire with some highly-rated cookbooks available on Amazon. From mastering additional Instant Pot recipes to discovering healthy spins on your favorite takeout meals, these books are filled with inspiration. Each selection has been chosen for its clear instructions, mouth-watering recipes, and outstanding reviews. Take the opportunity to elevate your home cooking experience—browse our favorite cookbooks today!

Our Top Cookbook Recommendations

1. Lazy Cookbook Recipes: A collection of 100 quick and delicious recipes tailored for busy individuals, beginners, and those who prefer minimal ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

2. Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners: Featuring over 2000 flavorful, 30-minute recipes, this cookbook simplifies healthy eating and provides a structured 30-day meal plan.

3. Skinnytaste Simple: This cookbook includes 120 healthy recipes that utilize seven ingredients or fewer, ensuring big flavor without the fuss.

Final Thoughts on Your Culinary Adventure

Cooking can be a delightful and rewarding experience, especially when trying out new recipes like this healthier orange chicken. With its enticing flavors and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy the journey of exploring new culinary horizons, and don’t hesitate to share your delicious creations!