Savory Orange Glazed Chicken Easy Weeknight Meal

Tired of the same old weeknight meals? It’s time to shake things up! This Savory Orange Glazed Chicken brings bright citrus flavor to your table without the fuss. In just a few steps, you can create a dish that’s both easy and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will impress your family. Let’s dive into the juicy details and make your next dinner a hit!

Ingredients

Required Ingredients for Orange Glazed Chicken

To make orange glazed chicken, gather these key ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3-4 oranges)

– Zest of 1 medium orange

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons honey

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

– Salt and black pepper to taste

These ingredients create a bright and tasty dish. The fresh orange juice gives a sweet tang. The chicken thighs stay moist and tender.

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

You can add these optional ingredients to enhance the dish:

– Red pepper flakes for heat

– Sesame oil for a nutty taste

– Scallions for fresh crunch

– Peanuts for added texture

These extras can bring new layers of flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on what you like.

List of Kitchen Tools Needed

To cook this dish, you will need:

– Medium mixing bowl

– Small bowl for the cornstarch slurry

– Large skillet

– Whisk and wooden spoon

– Measuring cups and spoons

– Knife and cutting board

Using the right tools makes cooking easier. Each tool helps you make the dish come together smoothly. You can find the full recipe [Full Recipe].

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Orange Glaze

Start by making the orange glaze. In a medium bowl, combine fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger. Whisk it well until smooth. Save 1/4 cup of this mix for later. In another small bowl, mix the remainder with cornstarch. This creates a slurry that thickens your glaze.

Cooking the Chicken Thighs

Now, prepare your chicken thighs. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken. Sear each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. This step keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Finalizing the Dish

Once cooked, pour the reserved orange juice mixture over the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. Next, add the cornstarch slurry. Stir well for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. This glaze should cling to the chicken. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken on a platter, drizzling the thickened glaze on top. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy your orange glazed chicken with rice or veggies for a complete meal. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.

Tips & Tricks

Recommended Cooking Techniques

For this orange glazed chicken, I use a skillet. It heats up fast and gives a nice sear. Searing adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Always preheat your skillet till it’s hot before adding oil. This step helps to avoid sticking. Use medium-high heat for the best results.

How to Achieve the Perfect Glaze

To get that beautiful glaze, use fresh orange juice. The zest adds more flavor, so don’t skip it. Make sure to set aside some juice for later. When you finish cooking the chicken, pour the reserved juice over it. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry, which thickens the sauce. Keep stirring until it clings to the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is not seasoning the chicken enough. Always season both sides with salt and pepper. Another error is cooking the chicken at too low a heat. This can make it dry. Make sure to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Lastly, don’t rush the glaze. Let it simmer long enough to thicken properly. Following these tips will help you create the perfect orange glazed chicken. For the full recipe, refer to the section above.

Variations

Substituting Different Proteins

You can easily swap chicken for other proteins. Try using pork tenderloin or shrimp. Both options work well with the orange glaze. Cooking times may change, so adjust as needed. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink. For pork, ensure it’s cooked to 145°F (63°C).

Modifying the Sauce Ingredients

Feel free to get creative with the sauce. You can add chili sauce for heat or use maple syrup instead of honey. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth and tang. If you want a sweeter sauce, add more honey or orange juice.

Alternative Cooking Methods

You can also grill or bake the chicken. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, brushing on the glaze near the end. For baking, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, then glaze before serving. Each method brings out unique flavors.

For the full recipe, don’t miss the chance to make this easy weeknight meal!

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

To keep your orange glazed chicken fresh, first let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. This helps to lock in flavor and moisture. I recommend using glass containers for better storage. You can also use plastic ones if you prefer. Always separate the glaze from the chicken to maintain texture.

How Long Orange Glazed Chicken Lasts

When stored correctly, orange glazed chicken can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing. Frozen chicken can last up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date. This way, you know when to use them.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your orange glazed chicken, you have a few options. The oven works well. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Just place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking often. If you have leftover glaze, drizzle it on top before serving. This will keep the flavors bright and tasty. For the full recipe, check back to the beginning.

FAQs

What can I serve with Orange Glazed Chicken?

You can serve Orange Glazed Chicken with many sides. Here are some good options:

– Steamed jasmine rice

– Roasted vegetables

– Stir-fried broccoli

– Coconut rice

– A fresh green salad

These sides balance the sweet glaze and add more flavor to your meal.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

To add spice, you can use several methods. Try these ideas:

– Add red pepper flakes to the glaze.

– Mix in sriracha or hot sauce.

– Use spicy soy sauce instead of regular.

– Add minced jalapeños to the pan while cooking.

These options give a nice heat to the dish without overpowering the orange flavor.

Can I use orange juice from concentrate?

Yes, you can use orange juice from concentrate. But fresh juice tastes better. If you use concentrate, pick one without added sugar. Mix it well to get the right flavor. You may need to adjust the sweetness in the glaze. Just taste as you go. This way, you can still enjoy a delightful Orange Glazed Chicken. For the full recipe, check out the details above.

This article covered how to make delicious orange glazed chicken. You learned about the key ingredients, tools, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips to ensure a perfect glaze and how to avoid common mistakes. You also discovered variations and storage tips to enjoy leftovers.

With these insights, you can create a tasty meal that impresses family and friends. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!

Orange Glazed Chicken

Elevate your dinner with this Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken recipe! Bursting with fresh citrus flavors, this dish pairs succulent chicken thighs with a sweet, tangy glaze made from orange juice, honey, and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. Ready in just 30 minutes, this delicious meal will have everyone asking for seconds. Click to explore the full recipe and bring this tasty dish to your table!

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Ingredients

  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3-4 oranges)

Zest of 1 medium orange

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger until well combined. Set aside 1/4 cup of this mixture to use later as a glaze.

In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining orange juice mixture with the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry. This will help thicken the sauce.

Generously season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet and sear each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the reserved orange juice mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Stir the cornstarch slurry into the skillet, mixing well while cooking. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken, creating a glossy glaze.

Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.

To serve, place the chicken on a platter or individual plates, then generously drizzle the thickened glaze over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and added flavor.

- Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken alongside steamed jasmine rice or a vibrant stir-fry of seasonal vegetables to complement the dish. Consider adding orange slices as a garnish for an attractive presentation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4