Easy Orange Chicken
Juicy orange-flavored chicken breasts baked to perfection with a citrus glaze and seasoned with thyme, ideal for a quick, flavorful meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and season with poultry seasoning or thyme.
- Mix melted butter with orange juice.
- Pour the orange juice mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle with poultry seasoning or thyme.
- Turn the chicken and baste with the juice mixture.
- Broil for 15 minutes or until the chicken is crisp and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. You can substitute orange juice with a blend of lemon juice and honey for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier texture, try adding breadcrumbs before broiling to achieve a golden top, similar to what you might find in Grandma Judi's Golden Fowl.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the orange chicken with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or even a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside stuffing, reminiscent of dishes like Stuffing And Chicken Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Orange Chicken contains roughly 525 calories, with 7g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if they are still partially frozen.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the orange juice mixture for a spicy kick. Alternatively, marinating the chicken in a spicy marinade before baking can enhance the overall flavor.
What can I substitute if I don't have poultry seasoning?
If you don't have poultry seasoning, a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and sage can work well as a substitute. Alternatively, Italian seasoning can also add a nice flavor without straying too far from the intended taste.
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).