Roasted Orange Chicken is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine succulent chicken drizzled with a sweet, tangy orange glaze that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. Huli Huli grilled chicken The aroma wafts through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around. sweet and sour chicken As the golden skin crisps up in the oven, you can already hear the applause of your eager guests.
This dish holds a special place in my heart—after all, it was the star at my cousin’s wedding dinner last summer. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors made it impossible not to go back for seconds. comforting chicken paprikash Whether it’s a family gathering or just a Tuesday night dinner, Roasted Orange Chicken promises to elevate any occasion into something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Roasted Orange Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor that will impress even picky eaters
- Its vibrant color makes it visually stunning on your dinner table
- Plus, you can easily customize the glaze for different flavor profiles depending on what’s in your pantry
- Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe will become a household favorite
I remember serving this dish to my friends during our monthly potluck, and let me tell you—their eyes widened as they took that first bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd.
Fresh Oranges: Use juicy oranges; they add sweetness and acidity that perfectly balances the dish.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps manage saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener helps caramelize the chicken, giving it a deliciously sticky glaze.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for added richness and depth of flavor.
Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: These herbs lend an earthy undertone that complements the citrus beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that our chicken achieves that glorious crispy skin we all crave.
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil until well combined. The sweet and savory aroma will make you want to dive right in.
Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes—this allows those flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
Arrange for Roasting: After marinating, arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in your baking dish. Pour any leftover marinade over them for extra flavor. Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary on top; trust me, this will elevate your dish!
Roast Until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Halfway through roasting, baste with pan juices to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once done, allow it to rest for about five minutes before slicing. Serve with rice or veggies for a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes!
Enjoy every bite of this Roasted Orange Chicken! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
You Must Know
- Roasted Orange Chicken not only dazzles the palate, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma
- This recipe blends sweet citrus with savory chicken, creating a dish that celebrates simplicity and flavor
- It’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in orange juice and spices. While it marinates, preheat your oven for even cooking results. Finally, roast until golden brown and juicy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out orange juice with lemon or lime for a zesty twist. Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Roasted Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. spicy chicken pasta Reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy skin, about 15 minutes at 350°F.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinating your chicken overnight amplifies flavor; it’s worth every second of anticipation!
- Always use a meat thermometer to check if it’s cooked through—165°F is key!
- Lastly, let your chicken rest before carving for juicier bites
Sometimes, I still remember the first time I made this dish for friends; their delighted faces were priceless! Seeing everyone enjoy my creation filled me with joy and pride. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Seafood Delight recipe.
FAQ
What can I serve with Roasted Orange Chicken?
Pair it with rice or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs add more flavor and stay moist during cooking.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part.

Roasted Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Roasted Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with a sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe guarantees to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and enticing aroma. Easy to prepare and customize, Roasted Orange Chicken will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3 oranges)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and olive oil.
- Marinate the chicken breasts in the mixture for 30 minutes in a baking dish.
- Place the marinated chicken in a single layer; pour remaining marinade over the top and sprinkle with herbs.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), basting halfway through.
- Let rest for five minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For a zesty twist, substitute orange juice with lemon or lime juice. Marinate overnight for enhanced flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat at 350°F for crispiness.