Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that will tantalize your taste buds? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Orange Marinated Chicken Bowls with Zucchini Rice! This mouthwatering dish combines tender, juicy chicken marinated in a zesty orange sauce with the fresh crunch of spiralized zucchini, making it the perfect choice for anyone following a Paleo or Keto lifestyle. In just 45 minutes, you can create a colorful and satisfying meal that not only looks stunning on your plate but also delivers a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Paleo, Keto
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine orange juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- While chicken is marinating, prepare zucchini by washing and spiralizing into rice-like noodles using a spiralizer or box grater.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess liquid.
- Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Ensure chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a separate pan, lightly sauté spiralized zucchini for 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Avoid overcooking to maintain a rice-like texture.
- Let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking, then slice into strips.
- Divide zucchini "rice" into four bowls, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle with any remaining pan juices.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or additional orange zest if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, allow your chicken to marinate for the full 20 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making every bite unforgettable.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it's cooked through while remaining juicy and flavorful.
- Zucchini Rice Technique: When spiralizing your zucchini, aim for a rice-like consistency. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a box grater works just as well! Just remember to keep it light to maintain that perfect texture.
- Avoid Overcooking the Zucchini: Sauté the zucchini for only 2-3 minutes. This keeps it crisp and prevents it from becoming mushy, allowing it to mimic the texture of rice.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of orange zest. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the citrus flavor.
- Customize Your Bowls: Feel free to add other veggies or toppings to your bowls, like avocado or a sprinkle of nuts, to make it your own!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
