Citrus Kissed Orange Glazed Chicken

$For this tasty dish, you will need: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup fresh orange juice - 2 tablespoons orange zest - 4 tablespoons honey - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry) - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish These ingredients create the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The orange juice and zest give a fresh taste. Honey adds a lovely sweetness, while soy sauce brings depth. I like to use fresh items whenever possible. Fresh orange juice and zest brighten the dish. Fresh ginger adds a nice kick. Using fresh garlic boosts the flavor too. If you can, pick fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish. You can mix in other seasonings as needed. Try adding red pepper flakes for heat. Sesame oil can add a nutty flavor. You might also enjoy a splash of rice vinegar for extra tang. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, grab a medium bowl. Whisk together these ingredients: - 1 cup fresh orange juice - 2 tablespoons orange zest - 4 tablespoons honey - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 2 cloves garlic, minced This mix will serve as both your marinade and glaze. The orange juice gives a bright flavor while the honey adds sweetness. Next, take 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag tightly and shake gently. You want all chicken pieces well-coated. Refrigerate the bag for at least 30 minutes. For best flavor, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. This step helps the chicken soak in all the tasty flavors. After marinating, take the chicken out of the bag. Let any extra marinade drip off. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and turn golden brown. After cooking, set the chicken aside on a plate. In the same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade. Bring it to a boil. Stir in a mix of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water, called a slurry. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it thicken for about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally. Once thick, return the chicken to the skillet. Coat the chicken in the glaze and heat for an extra minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Your orange glazed chicken is now ready! Marinating chicken adds great flavor and makes it juicy. Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best taste. Seal the chicken in a plastic bag with the marinade. This helps the chicken soak up all those tasty flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 2 hours. This gives the chicken a deeper flavor. Keep the heat at medium when cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking will keep it moist. To impress your guests, serve the chicken on a large platter. Drizzle extra glaze over the chicken for shine and flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color. Pair the dish with steamed rice or a colorful vegetable stir-fry for a beautiful meal. Pro Tips Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice golden-brown crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). Glaze Consistency: If you prefer a thicker glaze, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cornstarch slurry, stirring consistently to avoid lumps. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a colorful vegetable stir-fry. Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor. {{image_2}} If you need to swap ingredients, you have options. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will stay moist and tender. For a sweet twist, try maple syrup instead of honey. If you want a tangy kick, use lime juice instead of orange juice. You can also swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. You can cook orange glazed chicken in different ways. Grilling gives it a smoky flavor. Just marinate the chicken as usual, then grill it for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Baking is another great method. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and cook for 25-30 minutes. Both methods will still keep the chicken juicy and flavorful. Adding spices can enhance the flavor of your dish. Try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also add a splash of sesame oil for a nutty taste. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring an earthy flavor too. For a fruity twist, add diced pineapple to the glaze. These combinations can elevate your orange glazed chicken to new heights! To store leftover orange glazed chicken, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well. You don’t want it to dry out. If you use a plate, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Cut the chicken into pieces for easy freezing. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This method helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. Use the oven at 350°F (175°C) to warm the chicken. This keeps it juicy and tasty. You can also use a microwave. Just be careful not to overcook it. Heat in short bursts, checking often. If the glaze has thickened, add a splash of water for moisture. Enjoy your delicious orange glazed chicken again! You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors soak in. For a stronger taste, marinate for up to 2 hours. Just don’t go over 2 hours. The chicken can become too salty if left longer. Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They are juicier and have more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly. Thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through. Great side dishes include steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with noodles or quinoa. These sides balance the sweet orange glaze nicely. To make this recipe gluten-free, swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Both options work well and keep the flavor. Always check labels to ensure no gluten sneaks in. Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use, reheat it in a pan until warm. You’ve learned how to make tasty Orange Glazed Chicken step by step. We covered the main ingredients and how to prepare the marinade. I shared tips for juicy chicken and creative ways to serve it. You can adapt the recipe with swaps and cooking methods. Don’t forget about storing and reheating leftovers properly. Enjoy trying this dish and adding your personal twist! Happy cooking!$

Citrus Kissed Orange Glazed Chicken

A flavorful chicken dish glazed with a citrusy orange sauce, perfect for any meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons orange zest
4 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
to taste salt and pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
for garnish fresh cilantro or parsley

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This will be your marinade and glaze.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag, ensuring the chicken is well-coated, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag and let any excess marinade drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for later use.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil.
Once boiling, stir in the cornstarch slurry, reduce the heat to a simmer, and let it thicken for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the thickened glaze, and cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Serve with steamed rice or a vibrant vegetable stir-fry for a colorful meal.

Keyword chicken, citrus, easy recipe, orange glaze