Orange Curried Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts are glazed with a vibrant orange and curry flavor, making this dish perfect for a quick, flavorful meal suitable for both weeknights and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove skin and all visible fat from chicken breasts.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Combine orange juice, lemon juice, curry powder, and salt. Pour over the chicken and cover.
- Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F.
- Sprinkle with paprika, if desired, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the orange juice mixture for a few hours before baking. If you don’t have curry powder, a blend of cumin and turmeric can serve as a substitute. You can also use fresh orange juice for a brighter taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicy curry powder.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Curried Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You can also offer naan or pita bread for dipping. Consider complementing it with a light yogurt sauce or a citrusy slaw.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Curried Chicken contains roughly 172 calories, with 7g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg 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 other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as dark meat typically requires a bit longer to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken with the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply transfer it to the oven. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I serve with Orange Curried Chicken?
This dish is versatile! It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or couscous. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad will balance the richness of the curry. For a fun twist, try serving it with flatbreads for a more casual meal.
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).