Saucy Chicken Bake
Juicy chicken breasts glazed with a tangy orange and chili sauce, garnished with fresh orange slices and parsley, perfect for a flavorful and colorful family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge chicken in flour and brown in vegetable oil.
- Transfer the browned chicken to a greased shallow baking dish.
- Set aside.
- Combine orange juice, chili sauce, soy sauce, dark corn syrup, and prepared mustard in a skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until tender.
- Garnish with orange slices and parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier chicken, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of flour when dredging. You can substitute orange juice with pineapple juice for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This dish also works well with boneless thighs if you want something juicier. For a simpler prep, use pre-cut green pepper strips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with steamed rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A crisp salad or roasted vegetables make excellent sides. For a complete meal, pair it with a light, fruity white wine. Garnish with fresh parsley and orange slices for an added touch of color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Potluck Chicken for a hearty gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Saucy Chicken Bake 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 for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Chicken Bake contains roughly 151 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1455mg per serving (63% 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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and proper browning. If you're short on time, you can quickly thaw them in cold water or in the microwave on the defrost setting. Just be cautious not to cook them during the thawing process.
What can I serve with Saucy Chicken Bake?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes to enjoy the sauce. A side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch. You could also pair it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a complete meal, try serving it with Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake for a comforting combination.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering. Alternatively, you can let the sauce simmer longer on low heat to reduce it naturally, which will also intensify the flavors. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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).