Baked Orange Chicken
Baked Orange Chicken offers tender chicken pieces infused with bright orange flavors and a hint of cinnamon. The dish features a tangy orange glaze, baked to perfection for a savory yet citrusy meal that appeals to fans of flavorful, family-friendly comfort food with a citrus twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chicken in a skillet in margarine.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and top with orange slices.
- In the same skillet, blend flour, salt, cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of drippings.
- Gradually stir in orange juice and heat to boiling, stirring until the mixture is thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and orange slices.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 to 60 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, consider substituting margarine with olive oil or coconut oil. If you're out of orange juice, you can use a mix of lemon juice and a bit of honey for a similar flavor. To enhance the dish, add some garlic powder or ginger to the sauce. Make sure to brown the chicken well for added flavor depth.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Orange Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed broccoli or a fresh green salad complements the dish well. For an American recipes twist, consider serving it with crispy garlic bread to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Orange Chicken contains roughly 826 calories, with 39g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2544mg per serving (111% 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 breast instead of chicken pieces?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts for this recipe. Just ensure they are evenly cooked, possibly reducing the baking time to prevent them from drying out. Chicken thighs can also be a great alternative for extra juiciness.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more orange juice or water until you reach your desired consistency. This will help maintain the flavor while ensuring the sauce remains pourable.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick to your Baked Orange Chicken, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy marinade before browning it for an extra layer of heat.
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).