Aunt Lindy'S Orange Chicken
A flavorful orange chicken dish featuring tender pieces baked with mushrooms, onions, and a tangy orange sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chicken in 3 tablespoons of butter.
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a casserole dish.
- In a skillet, lightly sauté the onions and mushrooms.
- Stir in the chicken bouillon cube, chili powder, and cinnamon, then spread the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Heat the remaining butter in a skillet, then stir in the flour and orange juice until smooth and thickened.
- Pour the orange sauce over the baked chicken and bake for an additional 35 minutes, covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in orange juice and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have fresh onions, use onion powder as a substitute. You can also replace the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different twist. Don't hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences; a bit more chili powder can add a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
This orange chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a light meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a citrusy coleslaw to enhance the flavors. For a heartier option, it complements well with Chicken Casserole(Ridgeway, Va), making it a satisfying family dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, covered, for a quicker option, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lindy'S Orange Chicken contains roughly 427 calories, with 44g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of fryer chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and can provide a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as they may require a bit longer to ensure they're cooked through.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Be sure to check that your chicken bouillon cube is gluten-free as well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and then follow the baking instructions for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).