Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken
Roasted orange chicken has a way of brightening up any dinner table, doesn’t it? The captivating blend of sweet and savory flavors in this dish makes it a goto choice for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy weeknight meal. I vividly remember when I first tried this recipe; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was enchanting and perfectly complemented by the vibrant colors of orange. Each bite is tender chicken bathed in a zesty orange marinade, and it’s nothing short of heavenly. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, this Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken will do just the trick.
What makes this recipe special
This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that caters to a variety of tastes. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare — it also presents beautifully, making it perfect for both casual and festive occasions. The bright, citrusy notes of the oranges combined with the savory garlic and thyme create a tantalizing taste that’s sure to please your family and friends. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that requires just a handful of accessible ingredients, so you won’t need to break the bank to whip it up.
"The combination of sweet oranges and savory chicken is a match made in culinary heaven. The flavors meld beautifully while the chicken remains juicy and tender. A must-try!" – Happy Foodie
Preparing Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken
If you’re ready to fire up the oven and get cooking, you’re in for a treat! First, gather your ingredients, then follow a simple and straightforward approach that will guide you every step of the way. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is perfect for any skill level.
What you’ll need
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 large navel oranges, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Tip: You can substitute the navel oranges with blood oranges for a beautiful color contrast and different flavor profile.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a roasting pan with olive oil.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry and season all sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
- Lay the thin orange slices on the bottom of the roasting pan and place the seasoned chicken on top.
- Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken pieces and sprinkle thyme leaves over everything.
- Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, basting the chicken with the pan juices halfway through.
- After 25 minutes, switch your oven to broil settings and broil the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the skin is caramelized and glossy.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra orange slices and fresh thyme sprigs.
- Lastly, spoon the pan sauce over the chicken before serving. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
The vibrant Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken can be enjoyed in numerous ways! Serve it over fluffy rice to soak up that delectable sauce, or nestle it alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, adding a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
How to store & freeze
If you happen to have leftovers (which may be rare given how delicious this dish is!), store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it comes to reheating, simply place the chicken back in the oven until it’s warmed through for the best texture. If you decide to freeze, make sure it’s packed tightly in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing!
Pro chef tips
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least an hour, if time allows. This will allow the flavors to penetrate more deeply into the meat. Also, don’t skip the broiling step; it adds that beautiful caramelized finish that elevates the dish.
Creative twists
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility! For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade. You could also throw in some chopped scallions or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor. For those looking for a lighter fare, swapping the chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts could work, but keep in mind it may require less cooking time.
Your questions answered
-
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is around 15 minutes, making this a quick meal option. -
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to prevent drying out. -
How do I ensure my chicken remains juicy?
By marinating the chicken thoroughly and basting it while roasting. The oven’s broiling step also helps keep the juices locked in.
This Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken promises to deliver a delightful dining experience, full of flavor and color, all while being wonderfully simple to prepare. Enjoy creating this dish and the smiles it brings to the table!
Roasted Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 large navel oranges, thinly sliced plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing the pan
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a roasting pan with olive oil.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry and season all sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
- Lay the thin orange slices on the bottom of the roasting pan and place the seasoned chicken on top.
- Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken pieces and sprinkle thyme leaves over everything.
Cooking
- Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, basting the chicken with the pan juices halfway through.
- After 25 minutes, switch your oven to broil settings and broil the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the skin is caramelized and glossy.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, garnish with extra orange slices and fresh thyme sprigs.
- Lastly, spoon the pan sauce over the chicken before serving. Enjoy!
