Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, look no further than Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, with tender chicken thighs coated in a glossy orange glaze paired beautifully with nutty sesame-infused jasmine rice. It’s an easy-to-make meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to satisfy and become a fast favorite.

Why It Works Every Time

When it comes to Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice, the magic lies in the harmony of its components. The chicken thighs are juicy and tender, thanks to their higher fat content compared to breasts, and they soak up the sticky orange sauce perfectly. The sauce itself is a delicious blend of fresh orange juice, honey, and soy sauce, with ginger and garlic adding depth and warmth. Thickened just right with cornstarch, it clings to each bite for maximum flavor impact.

The jasmine rice cooked with toasted sesame seeds and a splash of sesame oil brings a fragrant, nutty side that complements the citrusy chicken. Toasting the sesame seeds releases their oils and aroma, elevating the rice from simple to sensational. This dish is balanced in taste, texture, and aroma, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces – the star protein, perfect for absorbing sauce.
• 1/2 cup orange juice – provides the fresh citrus base for the sticky sauce.
• 1/4 cup honey – adds natural sweetness and helps create that luscious glaze.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – for savory umami depth.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger – gives a warm, zesty kick.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds aromatic base flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• 2 tablespoons water – mixed with cornstarch for the slurry.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for cooking the chicken to a golden brown.
• 1 cup jasmine rice – fragrant, fluffy rice to serve alongside.
• 2 cups water – for cooking the rice.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – to infuse the rice with rich, nutty flavor.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted – add crunch and aroma to the rice.
• 2 green onions, chopped – fresh garnish to brighten the dish.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Medium saucepan – to cook the jasmine rice perfectly.
• Large skillet or wok – for sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Mixing bowl – to prepare the cornstarch slurry.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the chicken and sauce.
• Grater – to grate fresh ginger.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken and green onions.

Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice Made Stepwise

Step 1: Toast the Sesame Seeds

Place the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Jasmine Rice

Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steam, covered, for another 10 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon sesame oil and the toasted sesame seeds for a fragrant, flavorful rice base.

Step 3: Prepare the Orange Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 2 cloves minced garlic. In a separate small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth to create a slurry.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken thighs and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken

Reduce heat to medium and pour the orange sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat fully in the sticky orange glaze.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the toasted sesame rice alongside the sticky orange chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions for freshness and an extra pop of color. Enjoy immediately!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Replace chicken thighs with firm tofu or tempeh, pressed and cubed, for a plant-based protein option.
• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free alternative.
• Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the glaze sticky and sweet.
• Swap sesame oil with avocado or olive oil if preferred, though the sesame flavor is key to the dish’s character.

Flavor Logic

This dish is a beautiful interplay of tastes and textures that work to create a complete sensory experience:

• Sweetness: Honey and orange juice provide a natural, fruity sweetness that balances savory elements.
• Savory Depth: Soy sauce adds umami richness that grounds the bright citrus notes.
• Warm Spice: Fresh ginger and garlic bring warmth and complexity without overpowering.
• Nutty Aroma: Toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil infuse the rice with a toasty, earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
• Texture Contrast: Tender chicken coated in sticky sauce paired with fluffy rice and crunchy sesame seeds makes every bite interesting.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice recipe lends itself well to meal prep and make-ahead cooking. You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice can be made ahead too, and gently reheated with a splash of water to restore fluffiness. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then plate with freshly toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for the best presentation and flavor.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but be mindful that breasts are leaner and can dry out faster. To keep them tender, avoid overcooking and consider marinating briefly before cooking.

Is it necessary to toast the sesame seeds?

Toasting sesame seeds is highly recommended as it brings out their natural oils and intensifies their nutty flavor, which elevates the rice from ordinary to exceptional.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the sauce safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.

How do I store leftovers properly?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water to the rice if it feels dry.

Cook This Next

• Instant Pot Sesame Chicken – another quick and flavorful chicken recipe with sesame goodness.
• Savory Coconut Rice – a fragrant and creamy rice side that pairs beautifully with Asian-inspired dishes.

Next Steps

Now that you have mastered Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice, consider experimenting with different citrus juices like mandarin or tangerine for a unique twist. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the chicken for added color and nutrition. This recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving, making it a great foundation for your culinary creativity.

Sticky Orange Chicken with Toasted Sesame Rice is a dish that combines simplicity and elegance, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The luscious sticky glaze paired with fragrant, nutty rice makes every bite a delight. Serve it up, garnish with green onions, and savor the delicious harmony of flavors and textures at your table.

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