Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Roasted Orange Chicken will become a staple in your kitchen:

Bright and Refreshing Flavor: The orange glaze adds a burst of citrus flavor, making the chicken taste vibrant and fresh.
Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The combination of orange juice and zest with savory herbs and spices creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
Simple Yet Impressive: This dish is easy to prepare but looks and tastes impressive, making it a great option for dinner parties or festive meals.
Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat: Roasting the chicken ensures a crispy, golden-brown skin while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the orange glaze to suit your taste, making it versatile for all preferences.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Zest and juice of 2 large oranges
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 small onion, quartered
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, rub with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Make the Orange Glaze: Whisk together orange zest, juice, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
Stuff the Chicken: Place the quartered onion inside the chicken.
Roast the Chicken: Put the chicken in a roasting pan, pour chicken broth around it, and brush with the orange glaze. Roast for 1 hour, basting every 20 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Servings and Timing

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Variations

Add a Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce into the glaze for a spicy twist.
Use Different Herbs: Experiment with basil or oregano instead of thyme and rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari as an alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but for better texture, reheating in the oven is recommended.

FAQs

How do I make the skin crispy?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and roasting, and baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through roasting to achieve a golden, crispy skin.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be shorter, about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Roast it on the day you plan to serve.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh oranges?

While fresh oranges provide the best flavor, you can use bottled juice if needed, though the taste may be slightly less vibrant.

What sides pair well with Roasted Orange Chicken?

Roasted vegetables, rice, couscous, or a light salad with a citrus dressing all complement the flavors of the chicken.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

You can simmer the glaze on the stove for a few minutes to reduce and thicken it, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I freeze leftover Roasted Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure the chicken is properly wrapped and stored in an airtight container.

What should the internal temperature of the chicken be?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured in the thickest part of the chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, Roasted Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Store individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Can I use other citrus fruits for the glaze?

Yes, lemon or lime can be substituted for orange to create a tangier version of the glaze.

Conclusion

Roasted Orange Chicken offers a delicious twist on the traditional roasted chicken. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, crispy skin, and juicy meat, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special event, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant citrus notes and comforting appeal.

Roasted Orange Chicken

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Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Roasted Orange Chicken is a delicious and vibrant dish that blends the sweetness of oranges with the savory flavors of roasted chicken. With a simple citrus glaze that creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory, this juicy and crispy chicken will impress your guests. Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or holiday meals.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Make the Orange Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.
Stuff the Chicken: Place the quartered onion inside the chicken’s cavity for extra flavor.
Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken on a roasting pan, breast side up, and pour the chicken broth around it. Brush the chicken with some of the orange glaze and reserve the rest for later.
Roast: Roast the chicken for about 1 hour or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), basting every 20 minutes with the remaining glaze.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with pan juices and extra orange glaze.

Notes

Add a Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy twist.

Use Turkey: This recipe also works with a turkey breast for larger gatherings.

Herb Twist: Try adding fresh sage or oregano to the seasoning mix for additional herbal flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Course, Roasted Chicken
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American, Holiday