Name: No Sugar Added Paleo Orange Cashew Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: 1/3 cup coconut aminos; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp tomato paste; Juice of 1 orange; 1 tsp sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 inch fresh ginger, minced; Few cracks of black pepper; Red pepper flakes, to taste; 2 tbsp avocado oil; 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp tapioca starch; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/3 cup raw cashews; Chives or green onion, chopped; Sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 41 reviews

If you love bold flavors with a clean, wholesome twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this No Sugar Added Paleo Orange Cashew Chicken Recipe. It’s a vibrant, juicy chicken dish bursting with natural citrus brightness, the satisfying crunch of cashews, and a flavorful sauce that doesn’t rely on any added sugars to shine. Perfectly suited to anyone following a paleo lifestyle or simply craving a nourishing, fresh take on classic orange chicken, this recipe blends simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a show-stopping dinner you can whip up any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round white plate lined with crinkled parchment paper holds several pieces of shiny, orange-brown glazed chicken chunks mixed with whole, light brown cashew nuts. The chicken pieces are coated evenly with a glossy sauce and sprinkled lightly with black and white sesame seeds, adding texture. The whole dish looks rich and moist, with a few darker seasoning spots on the chicken, all presented on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color without complication. The balance of tangy, nutty, and savory notes comes through with just a handful of staples, proving how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.

Coconut aminos: A naturally sweet and savory alternative to soy sauce that keeps this dish paleo-friendly and rich in umami flavor.
Rice vinegar: Adds a gentle tanginess to brighten the sauce and balance the orange’s natural sweetness.
Tomato paste: Deepens the sauce’s flavor with its concentrated, slightly sweet tomato essence.
Fresh orange juice: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and citrus zestiness for that signature orange chicken taste.
Sesame oil: A small drizzle infuses a toasty aroma that complements the cashews beautifully.
Garlic and ginger: Minced to release their fragrant, pungent warmth, they create a vibrant flavor base for the sauce.
Black pepper and red pepper flakes: To offer a subtle kick and enhance the overall depth of flavor.
Avocado oil: Perfect for sautéing with a high smoke point and neutral flavor, letting the chicken sear nicely.
Chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly and soak up all the delicious sauce.
Tapioca starch: Lightly coats the chicken for a silky texture and to help thicken the sauce without gluten or grains.
Raw cashews: Add satisfying crunchiness and a buttery richness that elevates the dish.
Chives, green onions, and sesame seeds (optional): Fresh garnishes that provide a splash of color and a subtle allium bite for presentation and flavor contrast.

How to Make No Sugar Added Paleo Orange Cashew Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together coconut aminos, rice vinegar, tomato paste, fresh orange juice, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground or fresh ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. This vibrant mixture is your flavor powerhouse and will infuse the chicken with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes without a speck of added sugar. Set it aside while you get the chicken ready.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in tapioca starch until they’re evenly coated. This simple step is essential because it helps the sauce cling beautifully to the chicken while giving it a slightly thickened, almost velvety texture. It also assists in creating a light crust when the chicken hits the pan, making each bite succulent and flavorful.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken along with sea salt. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed at first, then stir occasionally until all pieces are cooked through and have a light, golden sear on the surface. This process should take about 9-12 minutes. The aroma of garlic and ginger will start filling your kitchen, building tasty anticipation for what’s next.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Cashews

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken, then stir in the raw cashews. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let everything gently cook together for 5-7 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly, coating the chicken and cashews perfectly in a sticky, glossy glaze packed with flavor. Keep an eye on it—the sauce should cling just right without becoming too thick.

How to Serve No Sugar Added Paleo Orange Cashew Chicken Recipe

A close-up view of a dish in a round white bowl lined with parchment paper, filled with pieces of orange-brown cooked chicken coated in a shiny sauce. Mixed throughout are light golden cashew nuts, and the dish is sprinkled with white sesame seeds and small green herb flakes. The surface beneath the bowl shows a soft white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing this dish with finely sliced chives or green onions alongside a sprinkle of sesame seeds not only boosts the visual appeal but adds fresh bursts of flavor and delicate crunch. These simple touches bring a bright, elegant lift to the plate that feels restaurant-worthy yet homey.

Side Dishes

This paleo orange cashew chicken shines best when paired with crisp, light sides like cauliflower rice or steamed green veggies such as broccoli or snap peas. These options keep the meal balanced and grain-free, absorbing the sauce’s vibrant flavors while adding contrasting textures that keep every bite exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun spin, serve this chicken recipe over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or fresh lettuce cups to enjoy it as a handheld dish. Alternatively, layering it on top of simple mashed sweet potatoes brings a creamy, earthy counterpoint that beautifully complements the zing of the sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.

Freezing

For longer storage, this chicken freezes beautifully. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the sauce. You can also microwave leftovers on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, making them a fantastic option for this recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Is coconut aminos really paleo-friendly?

Yes, coconut aminos are a popular soy sauce alternative made from fermented coconut sap, making them a perfect fit for paleo diets while providing a naturally sweet, umami flavor.

What if I don’t have tapioca starch?

If tapioca starch isn’t on hand, arrowroot powder is a great substitute for coating the chicken and thickening the sauce. Both are paleo-approved and work similarly in recipes like this.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce to dial up the heat according to your taste buds.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s ideally suited for meal prep. The flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge, and it reheats beautifully. Just keep the garnishes separate until ready to serve for freshness.

Final Thoughts

This No Sugar Added Paleo Orange Cashew Chicken Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings wholesome nutrition and bright, bold flavors together effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your go-to dishes for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or health. Happy cooking and even happier eating!