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Homemade Sticky Orange Ginger Chicken with Sesame Rice recipe photo

Sticky Orange Ginger Chicken with Sesame Rice

This Sticky Orange Ginger Chicken with Sesame Rice is bursting with vibrant, sweet, and tangy flavors. Tender chicken thighs glazed in a luscious sauce paired with fragrant sesame-infused jasmine rice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs boneless and skinless
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce use low sodium if preferred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger grated
  • 1 whole orange juiced and zested
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth for cooking rice
  • 2 pieces green onions sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds toasted

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium pot
  • Microplane or fine grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
  2. While the rice cooks, mix together honey, soy sauce, fresh grated ginger, orange juice and zest, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a bowl to make the orange ginger sauce.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and sear on each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked through.
  4. Pour the orange ginger sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Pour slurry into the sauce and whisk continuously until thickened to a glossy, sticky consistency (2-3 minutes). Return chicken to pan and coat with sauce.
  6. Plate the sesame rice, top with sticky orange ginger chicken, and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with steamed vegetables or salad if desired.

Notes

  • You can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate for convenience.
  • Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results; chicken breasts can be used but cook less.
  • Reheat leftovers gently, adding a splash of water to rice to refresh texture.
  • Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to balance sweetness if desired.