Craving a healthy chinese fix? try this paleo orange chicken recipe that will leave you satisfied

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine with our paleo-friendly orange chicken recipe. This delectable dish combines the vibrant citrus notes of oranges with the savory umami of chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
• 1 tablespoon coconut flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Orange Sauce:

• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup coconut aminos
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, arrowroot powder, coconut flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Make the Orange Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, coconut aminos, honey, arrowroot powder, orange zest, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken to the orange sauce and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve: Serve the orange chicken over your favorite paleo-friendly side dishes, such as cauliflower rice, stir-fried vegetables, or brown rice.

Tips

• For a crispier chicken, fry the cubes in hot oil before coating them in the arrowroot powder mixture.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
• Add other vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers, for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
• If you don’t have coconut aminos, you can use soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.

Health Benefits

This orange chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• High in Protein: The chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Oranges are loaded with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Low in Carbohydrates: This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a paleo or keto diet.
• Gluten-Free and Grain-Free: The arrowroot powder and coconut flour used in this recipe are both gluten-free and grain-free, making it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add additional red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
• Orange Chicken with Broccoli: Stir-fry broccoli florets in the same skillet as the chicken before adding the orange sauce.

Final Thoughts

Our paleo orange chicken recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the bold flavors of Chinese cuisine with the health benefits of a paleo diet. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What can I use instead of arrowroot powder?
A: You can use cornstarch or tapioca flour as a substitute for arrowroot powder.

Q: How do I make sure the orange sauce is not too tart?
A: Add a little bit of honey or maple syrup to the sauce to balance out the tartness.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the orange sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken together.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with orange chicken?
A: Cauliflower rice, stir-fried vegetables, brown rice, or quinoa are all great options to serve with orange chicken.