Orange Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful orange glaze create a delightful dish with bright citrus notes and savory undertones. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this baked orange chicken offers a sweet and tangy profile that pairs well with rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange chicken in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle melted margarine over chicken; sprinkle with paprika.
- In a small bowl, combine chopped onion, salt, dried rosemary, black pepper, orange juice, orange peel, and cornstarch; mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Bake, uncovered, for 40 to 45 minutes, or until tender.
- Baste occasionally during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the orange juice mixture for a few hours before baking. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of honey or brown sugar if desired. This recipe also works well with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Browse more chicken recipes for additional ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Orange Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chinese Vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor and a pop of color. Consider a light salad or spring rolls as a side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Chicken contains roughly 388 calories, with 17g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (114% of the Daily Value), and iron (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1030mg per serving (45% 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 fresh oranges instead of orange juice?
Yes, you can use freshly squeezed orange juice for a fresher taste. Just make sure to strain it to remove any pulp if you prefer a smooth sauce. Fresh orange zest can also enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
What can I serve with Orange Chicken?
Orange Chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with jasmine rice, fried rice, or a simple vegetable stir-fry. For a lighter option, try it with a mixed green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed.
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).