Instant Pot Orange Chicken Recipe: A Healthier Take on a Classic Favorite
If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful orange chicken recipe that’s also healthier than your usual takeout, this dish is perfect for you. It’s made using the Instant Pot, making the whole process fast and convenient. Packed with lean protein and a delicious sweet and tangy sauce, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Healthier Orange Chicken
Who can resist the savory and sweet flavors of classic Chinese takeout? While it’s undeniably tasty, the traditional version often comes with extra calories, excess oil, and sodium. This homemade orange chicken recipe offers all the flavor you crave but with cleaner ingredients and a lighter touch.
Using fresh orange juice, coconut aminos, garlic, and ginger, the sauce is naturally sweet and full of umami. Topped with optional fresh cilantro and green onions, this dish brings both vibrancy and balance to your plate. Plus, it’s easy to serve over steamed rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or enjoy on its own.
The Magic of the Instant Pot
One of the best things about this orange chicken recipe is that it’s made entirely in the Instant Pot—saving time, effort, and dishes. No more hovering over the stove or dealing with messy frying oil. The Instant Pot cooks the chicken to perfection, infusing it with the sweet, zesty sauce in just minutes.
The result? Tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that rivals your favorite restaurant version. Minimal prep and quick clean-up make this a stress-free dinner option for busy weeknights.
Why the Instant Pot Duo Mini is Perfect for This Orange Chicken Recipe
The Instant Pot Duo Mini is the perfect appliance for making this orange chicken recipe effortlessly. Its compact size and multiple programmable functions allow you to pressure cook, sauté, and keep your meal warm—all in one device. Plus, this model proudly carries the Amazon’s Choice badge, ensuring high customer satisfaction, reliability, and excellent reviews. It’s a must-have tool for simplifying meal prep and achieving tender, flavorful results every time.
7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan and food warmer.
QUICK ONE-TOUCH COOKING: 13 customizable Smart Programs for pressure cooking ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, desserts and more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this simple orange chicken recipe, gather the following ingredients:
1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
1/3 cup orange juice, plus zest for extra flavor
2 ½ tablespoons coconut aminos (a soy sauce alternative)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
½ tablespoon powdered ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 ½ teaspoons all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option
¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Orange Chicken in the Instant Pot
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
Place the cubed chicken breast into the Instant Pot. In a small bowl, combine orange juice, zest, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir well and pour the mixture over the chicken.
Step 2: Cook Under Pressure
Seal the lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and select the manual or pressure cook setting. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release to safely release the steam.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Open the lid carefully. Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside. Add the flour or arrowroot powder to the remaining sauce in the Instant Pot, whisking until it thickens.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the thickened sauce, stirring to coat each piece evenly. Divide the dish among plates and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with your choice of rice or low-carb cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Read More:
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A Better Alternative to Takeout
The next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, skip the delivery and make this wholesome orange chicken recipe instead. Not only will you enjoy a nourishing, protein-packed meal, but you’ll also appreciate how easy it is to prepare.
With the convenience of the Instant Pot and the vibrant flavors of citrus, garlic, and ginger, this dish proves that homemade meals can be just as satisfying—and healthier—than dining out.
Loved This Recipe? Check Out Our Top Cookbook Picks on Amazon!
If you enjoyed making this orange chicken recipe, you’ll love expanding your culinary skills with these highly-rated cookbooks on Amazon. From mastering more Instant Pot meals to discovering healthy twists on your favorite takeout dishes, these selections offer endless inspiration. We’ve carefully chosen these cookbooks for their clear instructions, delicious recipes, and outstanding reviews. Don’t miss the chance to make mealtime even more exciting—shop our Amazon favorites now and take your home cooking to the next level!
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Skinnytaste Simple: Easy, Healthy Recipes |
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