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Roasted Orange Chicken

Roasted Orange Chicken

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Short Description

Roasted Orange Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seared to golden perfection and roasted with fresh orange slices and herbs. The chicken is glazed with a sweet and tangy orange sauce infused with garlic and ginger, then broiled to achieve a caramelized finish. This dish offers a delightful balance of savory and citrus flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Vibrant Citrus Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice, zest, and slices infuses the chicken with a bright and refreshing taste.

  • Aromatic Herbs: Fresh thyme and optional rosemary add depth and fragrance to the dish.

  • Caramelized Glaze: The honey-orange glaze thickens to a luscious coating that enhances the chicken’s flavor and appearance.

  • Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.

  • Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to rice or couscous.Cravings Journal

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 orange, sliced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)

For the Orange Glaze:

  • ½ cup fresh orange juice

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 2 teaspoons orange zest

  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry. Rub them with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

  4. Add Orange Slices: Arrange the orange slices around the chicken in the skillet.

  5. Roast the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  6. Prepare the Glaze: While the chicken is roasting, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, orange zest, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook until the glaze thickens.

  7. Glaze and Broil: Once the chicken is cooked, brush the glaze over the thighs. Set the oven to broil and return the skillet to the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.

  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme and additional orange zest if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy twist.

  • Herb Substitutions: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different herbal note.

  • Citrus Blend: Combine orange juice with lemon or lime juice for a more complex citrus flavor.

  • Boneless Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; adjust cooking time accordingly.

  • Vegetable Addition: Add sliced bell peppers or onions to the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals.

  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken without the glaze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used. Adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

What sides pair well with Roasted Orange Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before roasting?

Searing adds flavor and helps render the fat for a crispy skin, but you can skip this step if desired.

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Roasted Orange Chicken

Roasted Orange Chicken

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4-servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Roasted Orange Chicken is a juicy, golden-crisp chicken dish bursting with fresh citrus flavor, balanced by savory garlic, soy, and honey glaze. Topped with caramelized orange slices and fragrant herbs, this oven-roasted dish is easy, elegant, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 orange, sliced

  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme (optional)

Orange Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh)

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp honey

  • 2 tsp orange zest

  • 1 tsp minced garlic

  • 1 tsp grated ginger

  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry)

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).

  • Season Chicken: Rub chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  • Sear Chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, sear chicken skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.

  • Roast: Arrange orange slices around the chicken. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

  • Make Glaze: In a saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, zest, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.

  • Glaze & Broil: Brush glaze over roasted chicken. Broil for 2–3 minutes until caramelized.

  • Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and extra orange zest if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.

  • Substitute boneless thighs or breasts if preferred, adjusting cook time.

  • Pairs well with jasmine rice or roasted vegetables.

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