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Roasted Orange Chicken

Roasted Orange Chicken


  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Roasted Orange Chicken recipe combines juicy, tender bone-in chicken thighs with the vibrant zest and fresh citrus flavor of orange. Effortlessly prepared with simple, natural ingredients, the dish balances sweet and savory notes enhanced by a tangy marinade and a glossy citrus glaze. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions, it offers a healthy, flavorful meal that is both light and nourishing.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Glaze

  • Leftover marinade
  • 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley
  • Additional orange zest

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine fresh orange juice, orange zest, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), brown sugar (natural), minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until fully blended to create a bright, tangy marinade that infuses flavor and tenderizes the chicken.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place bone-in chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to maximize flavor penetration.
  3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly oil a baking dish or roasting pan to prevent sticking and help crisp the chicken skin.
  4. Roast the Chicken: Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared dish. Pour a small amount of marinade over the top, leaving most in the dish to maintain moisture. Roast for 30 to 35 minutes or until skin is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Create the Glaze: While the chicken roasts, transfer leftover marinade to a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook with the addition of a natural gelling agent until slightly thickened to a syrupy consistency for a shiny, flavorful finish.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Remove chicken from oven and spoon the thickened glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra orange zest for added brightness, color, and aroma before serving.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for better moisture retention and richer flavor.
  • Pat chicken dry before marinating to achieve crispier skin.
  • Marinate overnight when possible for deeper flavor infusion.
  • Ensure glaze is thick enough to coat chicken well; adjust simmering time accordingly.
  • Let chicken rest 5 to 7 minutes after roasting to lock in juices.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: roasted orange chicken, citrus chicken, baked chicken thighs, orange glaze chicken, gluten free chicken recipe