Roasted Orange Chicken

Roasted Orange Chicken

Table of Contents

 Description

Roasted Orange Chicken is a juicy, flavourful dish featuring tender chicken infused with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze. The caramelized orange sauce, combined with garlic and herbs, creates a perfectly balanced dish—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. It’s elegant enough for special occasions yet simple for a family dinner.

 Servings

Serves: 4–6 people

 Ingredients

For Chicken:

  • 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs) 🍗
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary 🌿

For Orange Glaze:

  • 1 cup fresh orange juice 🍊
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

For roasting:

  • Orange slices 🍊
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • 3–4 garlic cloves (whole)

 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven:
    Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken:
    Pat chicken dry. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
  3. Prepare glaze:
    In a saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
    Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until slightly thick.
  4. Roast chicken:
    Place chicken in a roasting dish with orange slices, garlic, and rosemary.
    Roast for 60–75 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with glaze.
  5. Final glaze:
    Brush extra glaze on top and roast another 10 minutes until golden and caramelized.
  6. Rest & serve:
    Let chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

 Notes

  • Basting is key for juicy, flavourful chicken
  • Use fresh orange juice for best taste
  • Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C)
See also  Mediterranean Chipotle Shrimp Tacos

💡 Tips

  • Add carrots or potatoes to roast alongside 🥕🥔
  • For extra crisp skin, broil last 3–5 minutes 🔥
  • Use chicken thighs if you prefer smaller portions

 Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbs: 15g

 Benefits

  • High in protein 💪
  • Vitamin C from oranges 🍊
  • Balanced sweet & savoury flavours
  • Great for family meals or gatherings

 Q&A

Q: Can I use bottled orange juice?
A: Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes, reheat and glaze again before serving.

Q: How do I keep it moist?
A: Don’t skip basting and resting time.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to glaze 🌶️