Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? You’re in the right place! This Orange Glazed Chicken recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. With zesty orange juice and a touch of honey, you’ll create a delicious glaze that makes your chicken shine. Let me guide you through easy steps to make a meal that impresses your family and friends. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
Additional Flavorings
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Cooking Essentials
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
When I make Orange Glazed Chicken, I focus on using fresh ingredients. Fresh orange juice makes a big difference in taste. You want to zest an orange to get the oils, which add a bright flavor. The soy sauce adds depth, while honey gives it a lovely sweetness. Cornstarch helps thicken the glaze, making it stick to the chicken.
I also make sure to have garlic and ginger ready. They bring warmth and spice to the dish. Use good quality olive oil for cooking the chicken. Finally, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both simple and packed with flavor. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
– Reserve 1/4 cup of the mixture for glazing later.
Start by gathering your ingredients. I love using fresh orange juice for a bright flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth. This mixture will be the heart of our dish. After mixing, set aside 1/4 cup for glazing. This step is key for that glossy finish later.
Cooking the Chicken
– Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
– Heat olive oil and sear chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side.
Next, take your chicken thighs and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning really enhances the flavor. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. Sear them for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden color to develop. This browning adds great flavor and texture.
Finishing Touches
– Simmer with reserved mixture for 2-3 minutes.
– Add cornstarch slurry and stir until sauce thickens.
After the chicken is cooked through, pour the reserved orange juice mixture over the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all that tasty flavor. Now, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the skillet and stir. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. This will give you a luscious glaze that clings to the chicken. Serve your orange glazed chicken drizzled with this sauce for a stunning dish.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Glaze
For the best flavor, always use fresh orange juice. The juice gives a bright taste that bottled juice can’t match. You want that sunny burst in every bite! To make the glaze thick, mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. This step is key. It helps the sauce cling to the chicken and gives it a nice shine.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your orange glazed chicken with rice or steamed vegetables. Rice soaks up the glaze, adding great flavor. Steamed veggies bring color and crunch to your plate. For a beautiful finish, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. It adds a pop of green and a fresh taste.
Cooking Equipment Recommendations
Choose a large skillet for searing chicken. A non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning easier. You want to get a nice brown color on your chicken, so don’t crowd the pan. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F to be safe to eat and juicy.
For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your cooking!
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can switch the chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster. They still soak up that sweet orange glaze well. For a vegetarian choice, use tofu. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Then, cut it into cubes and follow the same steps. This gives you a nice, tasty meal without meat.
Different Flavor Profiles
Want to spice things up? Add some chili flakes for heat. It gives the dish a nice kick. You can also switch the honey for maple syrup. This adds a different sweetness and depth to the glaze. Feel free to mix and match flavors to find what you love.
Serving Style Alternatives
Try orange glazed chicken in a wrap for a fun twist. Use a tortilla and add veggies for crunch. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens. This makes a light and fresh meal. The greens balance the sweetness of the glaze. Explore these serving styles for a new dining experience!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and prevents strong odors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days for the best taste.
Long-term Storage
For long-term storage, you can freeze orange glazed chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. It will stay good for up to three months. When you are ready to use it, thaw in the fridge overnight. This method helps keep the texture nice.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat the chicken and keep it moist, use the stovetop or oven. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to the pan. Cover it to trap the steam. If using the oven, wrap the chicken in foil to keep it from drying out. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Reheat gently until warm all the way through.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook orange glazed chicken?
You can cook orange glazed chicken in several ways. Each method gives a tasty result.
– Grilling: This method adds a smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush chicken with oil before grilling. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side.
– Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Baste with orange glaze halfway through for more flavor.
– Stovetop: This is quick and easy. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side. Pour on the glaze to finish cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare orange glazed chicken ahead of time. This saves time for busy days.
– Meal Prep: Marinate chicken in the orange glaze for a few hours or overnight. This lets the flavors soak in. Cook it on the day you plan to eat.
– Timing: If you cook it in advance, store it in the fridge. It lasts for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
What to serve with orange glazed chicken?
Many side dishes pair well with orange glazed chicken. Here are some ideas:
– Rice: Serve with steamed white or brown rice. The glaze soaks into the rice for extra flavor.
– Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables add color and nutrition. Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas work well.
– Salad: A fresh green salad balances the meal. Use citrus dressing to tie in the orange flavor.
Is orange glazed chicken healthy?
Orange glazed chicken can fit well into a healthy diet. Here’s why:
– Nutritional Info: It’s high in protein from the chicken. The orange juice adds vitamins like C.
– Health Tips: Use less honey for less sugar. Choose skinless chicken to cut down on fat. Add more veggies on the side for a balanced meal.
For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe].
This blog post has shared a tasty orange glazed chicken recipe. You learned about main ingredients like chicken thighs and fresh orange juice. I outlined cooking steps, tips for the best glaze, and ways to serve the dish.
Consider trying variations, like using tofu or adding chili flakes. Storing leftovers properly helps maintain flavor. This recipe is not only simple but also offers healthy options. Enjoy making this dish, and share it with others!
![- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 cup fresh orange juice - Zest of 1 orange - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 2 tablespoons honey - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ginger, grated - Salt and pepper to taste When I make Orange Glazed Chicken, I focus on using fresh ingredients. Fresh orange juice makes a big difference in taste. You want to zest an orange to get the oils, which add a bright flavor. The soy sauce adds depth, while honey gives it a lovely sweetness. Cornstarch helps thicken the glaze, making it stick to the chicken. I also make sure to have garlic and ginger ready. They bring warmth and spice to the dish. Use good quality olive oil for cooking the chicken. Finally, don't forget to season with salt and pepper. These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both simple and packed with flavor. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. - Whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. - Reserve 1/4 cup of the mixture for glazing later. Start by gathering your ingredients. I love using fresh orange juice for a bright flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth. This mixture will be the heart of our dish. After mixing, set aside 1/4 cup for glazing. This step is key for that glossy finish later. - Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. - Heat olive oil and sear chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side. Next, take your chicken thighs and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning really enhances the flavor. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. Sear them for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden color to develop. This browning adds great flavor and texture. - Simmer with reserved mixture for 2-3 minutes. - Add cornstarch slurry and stir until sauce thickens. After the chicken is cooked through, pour the reserved orange juice mixture over the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all that tasty flavor. Now, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the skillet and stir. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. This will give you a luscious glaze that clings to the chicken. Serve your orange glazed chicken drizzled with this sauce for a stunning dish. For the best flavor, always use fresh orange juice. The juice gives a bright taste that bottled juice can’t match. You want that sunny burst in every bite! To make the glaze thick, mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. This step is key. It helps the sauce cling to the chicken and gives it a nice shine. Pair your orange glazed chicken with rice or steamed vegetables. Rice soaks up the glaze, adding great flavor. Steamed veggies bring color and crunch to your plate. For a beautiful finish, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. It adds a pop of green and a fresh taste. Choose a large skillet for searing chicken. A non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning easier. You want to get a nice brown color on your chicken, so don’t crowd the pan. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F to be safe to eat and juicy. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your cooking! {{image_2}} You can switch the chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster. They still soak up that sweet orange glaze well. For a vegetarian choice, use tofu. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Then, cut it into cubes and follow the same steps. This gives you a nice, tasty meal without meat. Want to spice things up? Add some chili flakes for heat. It gives the dish a nice kick. You can also switch the honey for maple syrup. This adds a different sweetness and depth to the glaze. Feel free to mix and match flavors to find what you love. Try orange glazed chicken in a wrap for a fun twist. Use a tortilla and add veggies for crunch. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens. This makes a light and fresh meal. The greens balance the sweetness of the glaze. Explore these serving styles for a new dining experience! To store leftovers, let the chicken cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and prevents strong odors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days for the best taste. For long-term storage, you can freeze orange glazed chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. It will stay good for up to three months. When you are ready to use it, thaw in the fridge overnight. This method helps keep the texture nice. To reheat the chicken and keep it moist, use the stovetop or oven. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to the pan. Cover it to trap the steam. If using the oven, wrap the chicken in foil to keep it from drying out. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Reheat gently until warm all the way through. You can cook orange glazed chicken in several ways. Each method gives a tasty result. - Grilling: This method adds a smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush chicken with oil before grilling. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side. - Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Baste with orange glaze halfway through for more flavor. - Stovetop: This is quick and easy. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side. Pour on the glaze to finish cooking. Yes, you can prepare orange glazed chicken ahead of time. This saves time for busy days. - Meal Prep: Marinate chicken in the orange glaze for a few hours or overnight. This lets the flavors soak in. Cook it on the day you plan to eat. - Timing: If you cook it in advance, store it in the fridge. It lasts for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving. Many side dishes pair well with orange glazed chicken. Here are some ideas: - Rice: Serve with steamed white or brown rice. The glaze soaks into the rice for extra flavor. - Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables add color and nutrition. Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas work well. - Salad: A fresh green salad balances the meal. Use citrus dressing to tie in the orange flavor. Orange glazed chicken can fit well into a healthy diet. Here’s why: - Nutritional Info: It's high in protein from the chicken. The orange juice adds vitamins like C. - Health Tips: Use less honey for less sugar. Choose skinless chicken to cut down on fat. Add more veggies on the side for a balanced meal. For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. This blog post has shared a tasty orange glazed chicken recipe. You learned about main ingredients like chicken thighs and fresh orange juice. I outlined cooking steps, tips for the best glaze, and ways to serve the dish. Consider trying variations, like using tofu or adding chili flakes. Storing leftovers properly helps maintain flavor. This recipe is not only simple but also offers healthy options. Enjoy making this dish, and share it with others!](https://homecookingstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ab6255ce-7c7a-47d7-8889-81053ea4c058-250x250.webp)