Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this luscious Orange Baked Chicken, a blend of savory and citrusy perfection that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This recipe features tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs baked to golden perfection in a flavor-packed marinade made with freshly squeezed orange juice, zesty orange zest, honey, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce. The key to its irresistible taste lies in the sticky, tangy orange glaze that thickens to a luscious consistency, adding a sweet and savory finish to every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is a show-stopper for gatherings or a nourishing family meal. Serve it with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying dish thatβs bursting with vibrant citrus flavor.
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Reserve the other half of the marinade for later use. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (optional but recommended).
Transfer the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up to the prepared baking dish. Discard the used marinade.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, basting with the juices from the dish every 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (74Β°C) and the skin is golden brown.
While the chicken bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering marinade, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens to a glaze-like consistency.
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Brush the thickened orange glaze over the chicken for extra flavor.
Serve the Orange Baked Chicken hot, garnished with additional orange zest or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad!
Calories |
1877 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 121.9 g | 156% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.9 g | 154% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 486 mg | 162% | |
| Sodium | 4014 mg | 175% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 92.3 g | 34% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 72.1 g | ||
| Protein | 113.6 g | 227% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 132 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 7.6 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 1797 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.