Oven Orange Chicken
Juicy oven-baked orange chicken coated in a tangy, sweet citrus glaze, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl to create the marinade.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the mixture, coating them completely.
- Lay the coated chicken in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and place orange slices over each piece, if desired.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight. If you don’t have orange juice concentrate, you can substitute with fresh orange juice, but reduce the water slightly. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a subtle kick, complementing the sweetness. If you're short on time, try using pre-cut chicken pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Oven Orange Chicken with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Crunchy Chinese Salad for added freshness and texture. Consider adding some sautéed green beans or a simple stir-fried vegetable medley for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Orange Chicken contains roughly 246 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2144mg per serving (93% 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 chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken works well and will cook faster. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, checking for doneness after about 30-40 minutes, to ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free version, and you can use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the marinade. This way, you can enjoy a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
What can I add for a bit more spice?
If you want to spice things up, consider adding some fresh ginger or a dash of chili sauce to the marinade. This will enhance the flavor profile and give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the sweetness.
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).