Roasted Orange Chicken Recipe

Roasted Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with a sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe guarantees to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and enticing aroma. Easy to prepare and customize, Roasted Orange Chicken will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Orange Chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The orange glaze, made from fresh orange juice, garlic, and brown sugar, creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. With a touch of soy sauce for depth and the aromatic herbs, this dish delivers a flavorful and aromatic experience. It’s simple to make and great for any occasion, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special dinner to share with loved ones.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3 oranges)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary

Directions

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

2. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil.

3. Marinate the Chicken:
   Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in.

4. Roast the Chicken:
   After marinating, arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary.
   Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Be sure to baste the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.

5. Let it Rest:
   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Zesty Twist: For a tangier variation, substitute the orange juice with lemon or lime juice to create a citrusy alternative.

• Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.

• Add Vegetables: Roast vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Roasted Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For added crispiness, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal

• Sugar: 12g

• Sodium: 550mg

• Fat: 10g

• Saturated Fat: 2g

• Unsaturated Fat: 7g

• Trans Fat: 0g

• Carbohydrates: 24g

• Fiber: 0g

• Protein: 25g

• Cholesterol: 80mg

Conclusion

Roasted Orange Chicken is the perfect combination of sweetness, savory flavors, and tender chicken. The citrusy glaze and the infusion of aromatic herbs make it a standout dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes, and savor the delicious combination of flavors!