Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to three days in refrigerator.
Quick Answer
This baked orange chicken recipe combines zesty citrus and savory chicken for a comforting dish that's perfect for the chilly season.
When the chilly season sets in New York City, I find myself craving comfort food that warms both the heart and home. One dish that has quickly become a favorite of mine is baked orange chicken. The vibrant combination of zesty citrus and savory chicken fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and upcoming holiday festivities like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
A Comforting Holiday Classic
This baked orange chicken recipe not only brings warmth to my home but also offers a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Experience the perfect fusion of zesty citrus and savory chicken.
- Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Healthy and wholesome, featuring fresh ingredients and lean protein.
- A one-dish wonder that makes for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with rice or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this delightful dish:
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
How to Make Baked Orange Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious baked orange chicken that will fill your kitchen with fabulous aromas.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up. The anticipation of that warm draft as the oven warms is always a welcome feeling on a chilly NYC day.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. As I whisk the ingredients together, I'm always enchanted by the beautiful citrus scent that fills the air.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, pouring the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; longer is better if you have the time! This tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade on top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and glazed. You'll know it's ready when the edges turn golden, and the sauce thickens, giving off that delightful sweet and tangy aroma.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and place the marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and let it simmer until thickened. This step adds an elegant gloss to the sauce, which makes it perfect for drizzling.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your baked orange chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. I love serving it over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside roasted vegetables to soak up that luscious sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can result in a less flavorful dish. Take the time to let the flavors meld!
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the time; overcooked chicken can end up dry and unappealing.
- Using bottled orange juice: Fresh juice makes a significant difference in the taste of this dish. Opt for fresh whenever possible!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Balance the sweetness: If you find your sauce is too sweet, add a splash more apple cider vinegar to balance it out.
- Customize the flavor: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire a bit of heat in your sauce.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or holiday dinners.
Variations
- Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts or legs for different textures.
- Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the marinade for a complete meal.
- Use other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a unique twist on flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve over fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the sauce.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a healthy side.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: This dish can be marinated the night before for enhanced flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven to maintain the chicken's juiciness.
- Freezing: The baked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I learned that marination not only deepens flavor but also enhances the chicken's tenderness. It's a simple step that can elevate a dish from good to truly memorable-perfect for impressing your holiday guests this season!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 24g protein · 15g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Baked Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Transfer marinated chicken to a baking dish and pour remaining marinade on top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- For a thicker sauce, remove chicken and simmer the marinade in a saucepan with the cornstarch mixture until thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, ideally over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside roasted vegetables.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
It's best to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination will enhance the flavor even more.
3. Can I use bottled orange juice for this recipe?
While you can use bottled orange juice, freshly squeezed juice will provide the brightest and most vibrant flavor.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
5. What should I serve with baked orange chicken?
Baked orange chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or roasted vegetables, which help soak up the delicious sauce.
