Craving a tangy yet savory dinner? This baked orange Chicken Recipe blends the perfect balance of zest and flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Using fresh, high-quality oranges and chicken, this dish is bound to become a family favorite, providing a delightful twist to your regular dinner routine.
I still remember the first time I made this for my family. It was a Sunday afternoon, and I wanted something special yet effortless. Watching my kids eagerly dig into their plates and seeing my husband nod with approval was priceless. This has become our family’s go-to dish for weekend dinners or when we want something comforting and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. It offers an exquisite blend of citrusy sweet and savory flavors that’s not commonly found in your average chicken dish. It’s a healthier, oven-baked alternative to typical fried orange chicken, making it a suitable option for health-conscious food enthusiasts. Preparing the dish is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal effort yet yielding maximum impact, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Plus, the use of fresh ingredients ensures you get the best out of every bite.
Ingredients Notes
When selecting ingredients, fresh oranges are key to enhancing the citrus aroma, although you can substitute with store-bought orange juice if pressed for time. Opt for boneless, skinless Chicken Thighs for juicy results, or chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Honey can replace sugar for a natural sweetener, while soy sauce adds depth. For an added kick, consider a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish. Grease lightly with a cooking spray or a brush of olive oil. Prepare the chicken by patting it dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix fresh orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and honey. Stir until well combined. This will be your marinating sauce and also doubles as a glaze.
Step 3
Place the chicken pieces into the baking dish and pour half of the glaze mixture over them, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
Step 4
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Midway through cooking, turn the chicken to ensure even cooking and continued flavor infusion from the glaze.
Step 5
Remove the chicken from the oven and pour the remaining glaze over the top. Return to oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to freeze the dish, ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. For reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake at a low temperature until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy twist, add sriracha to the glaze mix. Vegetarians can substitute chicken with tofu; increase baking time as needed to achieve desired crispness. For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari. Adding sliced bell peppers or broccoli florets can enhance texture and nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze. It’s ideal for family dinners, potluck gatherings, or as a featured dish in an Asian-inspired feast. Garnish with fresh orange zest and green onions before serving to impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken with the skin on? While you can certainly use chicken with skin, it may alter the dish’s texture and moisture level. Boneless, skinless pieces work best for optimizing the dish’s intended citrus infusion and flavor profile.
What’s the best way to ensure my chicken stays juicy and tender? Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes is crucial for juicy results. Additionally, baking the chicken rather than frying helps retain its natural juices without losing the glaze’s integrity.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the glaze mix a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours, and bake when ready. This pre-planning can save time and ensure stress-free meal prep, especially before hosting guests.
Baked Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
