Microwave Orange Glazed Chicken For Two
Juicy chicken breast glazed with a tangy orange sauce, featuring a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and a citrus aroma. This quick microwave recipe is perfect for a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal effort, ideal for busy weeknights or a light lunch for two.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split the chicken breast, rinse, and pat dry.
- Place the chicken in a 9-inch round microwave-safe baking dish, with the thick edges toward the rim.
- Sprinkle lightly with paprika.
- Cover with waxed paper and microwave on High for 3 minutes.
- Pour off the fat and set the chicken aside.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the orange juice, vinegar, and grated orange peel for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you don't have orange juice, substitute with lemon or lime juice for a different but tangy flavor profile. Adjust the paprika based on your spice preference; smoked paprika can add a nice depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the orange glazed chicken with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with rice, such as in 15 Minute Chicken And Rice, to soak up the delicious glaze. For a more substantial side, consider mashed potatoes or quinoa to complement the flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Orange Glazed Chicken For Two contains roughly 133 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but it's best to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper glaze absorption. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can be used, but you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly to maintain the correct consistency.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the glaze mixture. You could also marinate the chicken with a spicy seasoning blend or serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick.
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).