Chicken Breast With Orange Sauce
Juicy chicken breasts glazed with a tangy orange sauce, accented by fresh orange rind and slices, perfect for a flavorful and elegant meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Melt margarine in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Brown chicken breasts in the skillet, turning 2 or 3 times.
- Transfer chicken to a shallow casserole, skin side up, and set aside.
- Add salt, paprika, ginger, and flour to the hot fat in the skillet and stir until smooth and lightly browned.
- Gradually add chicken broth and orange juice, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir over low heat until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the casserole.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Cut each orange slice into quarters and place two quarters on top of each piece of chicken.
- Scatter grated orange rind and ginger on top.
- Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're out of fresh orange juice, bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh juice enhances the taste. Adding a splash of soy sauce can deepen the sauce's complexity. For added texture, you might sprinkle some chopped nuts over the finished dish. This recipe can be easily adapted to include vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish alongside fluffy rice or a light quinoa salad to soak up the delicious orange sauce. Steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad also make excellent side dishes. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread to complement the sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and it pairs beautifully with Aunt Artie Bell'S Chicken Pie for a delightful meal.
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 an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breast With Orange Sauce contains roughly 86 calories, with 4g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 770mg per serving (33% 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 breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I substitute for orange juice?
If you don't have orange juice, you can use lemon juice for a different citrus flavor, or even a combination of apple juice and a bit of vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist. Keep in mind that using a substitute may slightly change the flavor profile of the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble and bake as directed. This can help the flavors meld together beautifully for an even tastier meal.
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).