Glazed Orange Chicken
Juicy, tender chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, perfect for a vibrant, family-friendly dinner with bold flavors and a glossy finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place chicken breast halves skin side up in a 7 x 12-inch metal pan.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Combine orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger in a bowl and stir until sugar dissolves.
- Pour the orange sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Bake the chicken for 35 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Stir the dissolved cornstarch mixture into the pan juices and bring to a boil over high heat to thicken.
- Return the chicken to the pan, turning to coat with the glaze.
- Increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
- Bake the chicken for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve the glazed chicken over rice, garnished with a broccoli stalk if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the orange sauce for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute honey for brown sugar or swap in low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. If you're out of ginger, ground cinnamon can add a different yet pleasant taste. Also, ensure your chicken is evenly coated in the sauce for optimal glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the glazed orange chicken over fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad pairs beautifully, adding a crunchy texture and freshness. For a complete meal, consider including a side of Hototay (Soup) or a light Asian-inspired slaw for balance in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover glazed orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it on medium power. Adding a splash of orange juice while reheating can help maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Orange Chicken contains roughly 412 calories, with 11g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (111% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 breast for this recipe?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They will provide a richer flavor and remain tender during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the desired doneness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange sauce. Alternatively, you can marinate the chicken with some chili oil before baking to infuse a spicy flavor throughout the dish.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option. Marinate the tofu or seitan in the same orange glaze before baking. This will ensure that the dish remains flavorful and satisfying while catering to vegetarian diets.
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).