Momma'S Orange Chicken
Momma's Orange Chicken features tender baked chicken glazed with a flavorful orange-soy sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a tangy, savory twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Baste chicken breasts with butter and season with garlic powder and pepper.
- Place chicken on aluminum foil-lined pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Pour frozen orange juice, soy sauce, and parsley flakes over the chicken.
- Bake for an additional 45 minutes.
- Use the cooked juices as gravy to serve with the chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using fresh orange juice instead of frozen for a brighter flavor. If you’re out of soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can serve as great substitutes. Adjust the garlic powder based on your taste preference; fresh minced garlic can also add a wonderful depth. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the orange juice mixture for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Momma's Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crunchy Chinese Cole Slaw for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider offering a side of Sam's Stir-Fry to complement the flavors of the chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Momma's Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps to retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Momma'S Orange Chicken contains roughly 43 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% 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 chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier result and can be substituted in the same quantity. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly if they are larger or smaller than the breasts.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick. Consider adjusting the amount based on your spice tolerance, and it will add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the orange juice.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Certainly! You can marinate the chicken in the orange juice and soy sauce mixture a few hours ahead or even overnight for enhanced flavor. Just make sure to bake it fresh right before serving for the best texture.
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).