Cherry Orange Chicken
A sweet and tangy cherry orange chicken dish featuring tender chicken glazed with orange and brown sugar, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a baking pan.
- Pour melted butter over the chicken.
- Combine brown sugar, orange peel, ground ginger, and orange juice.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven and add drained dark sweet cherries.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until chicken is tender and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the butter and sugar mixture for a few hours before baking. If you don’t have dark sweet cherries, you can substitute with fresh cherries or even canned peaches. Adjust the brown sugar to taste based on your preference for sweetness. Consider adding a splash of soy sauce for an umami twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cherry Orange Chicken over a bed of rice or alongside Garlic Hominy Grits for a hearty meal. Pair it with a simple salad or Brussels Sprouts With Pecans for a balanced plate. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Orange Chicken contains roughly 739 calories, with 10g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 boneless chicken instead of cut-up fryers?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the baking time as it may cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it's fully cooked.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce can give it a nice kick. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
What should I do if I can't find dark sweet cherries?
If dark sweet cherries are unavailable, you can substitute with any canned fruit in syrup, like peaches or even pineapple, which will add a different but delicious flavor profile.
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).