Orange Tarragon Chicken Breasts
Juicy chicken breasts infused with zesty orange and aromatic tarragon, complemented by fresh vegetables and a flavorful sauce, perfect for a bright, elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and garlic powder.
- Brown chicken breasts in a little cooking oil in a skillet.
- Remove chicken from the pan and discard the oil.
- Return chicken to the pan and add orange juice, water, tarragon, bell pepper, celery, orange peel, and lemon herb.
- Braise on medium heat until the chicken is done, about 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup water to make a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the orange juice, tarragon, and garlic powder for at least an hour before cooking. If you don't have tarragon, dill or thyme can be good substitutes. Consider adding a splash of white wine to the braising liquid for an extra depth of flavor. This dish also works well with other citrus juices like lemon or lime.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Orange Tarragon Chicken Breasts over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Arroz Con Buo or Ken'S Chicken And Sausage Jambalaya for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it moist, covering with a lid until heated through. You can also microwave it for a quick option, but be cautious not to overheat to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Tarragon Chicken Breasts contains roughly 123 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% 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 boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts. They will provide a slightly richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What can I substitute for lemon basil?
If you can't find lemon basil, you can use regular basil with a squeeze of lemon juice or lemon zest to mimic the citrusy flavor. Other alternatives include lemon thyme or even a touch of rosemary for a different twist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through. This can save time on busy weekdays while still delivering a delicious 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).