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Cilantro Orange Chicken Bites Recipe

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4.4 from 13 reviews

These Cilantro Orange Chicken Bites are a vibrant and flavorful main course perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken thigh pieces are seasoned with smoked paprika, cumin, and salt, then sautéed to perfection. They are tossed in a tangy and sweet sauce made from fresh orange juice, honey, garlic, vinegar, and soy sauce, and finished with fresh cilantro for a bright, aromatic touch. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish offers a delightful balance of citrusy sweetness and savory spice.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the chicken bites:

  • 1¼ lbs. chicken thighs or tenderloins, cut into 1-1½ inch pieces
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
  • Olive oil, for cooking the chicken

For the orange-honey sauce:

  • 2 oranges, juiced
  • 3 Tbsp honey
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 Tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and salt, then toss until the chicken is fully coated in the spices, ensuring an even seasoning throughout.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, honey, minced garlic, white vinegar, and soy sauce until well combined. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. Cook the chicken: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken bites. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl to keep warm.
  4. Make the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and pour the prepared orange sauce into the same pan. Use a whisk to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan — this will add depth of flavor. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes while whisking occasionally, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  5. Toss the chicken in sauce: Return the chicken to the pan using a slotted spoon or tongs, and remove the pan from heat. Add the chopped cilantro and toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the glossy orange-honey sauce. Optionally, you can let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few extra minutes to develop crispy edges.
  6. Serve: Serve the Cilantro Orange Chicken Bites warm with extra orange sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • For juicier chicken, use thighs rather than breast meat as they remain more tender after cooking.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water while simmering.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
  • Adjust honey quantity to taste for desired sweetness level.
  • Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari can be used to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/cilantro-orange-chicken-bites-recipe/