Yogurt-Orange Chicken
A tangy and flavorful chicken dish with yogurt and orange, perfect for those who enjoy bright, citrus-infused flavors combined with aromatic spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a wide frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and cook, turning, until browned on all sides.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until softened.
- Squeeze the juice from the oranges and add to the pan.
- Stir in ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, and sugar.
- Return the chicken to the pan.
- Mix cornstarch with yogurt and add to the pan, stirring to combine.
- Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices overnight before cooking. If you don't have fresh oranges, orange juice can be a good substitute. Adjust the spices to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of chili flakes for a kick. This dish goes well with Mediterranean recipes, enhancing its flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the yogurt-orange chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside Two Grain Lemon Pilaf for a delightful meal. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover yogurt-orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook the chicken and dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yogurt-Orange Chicken contains roughly 297 calories, with 9g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% 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 can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster than bone-in pieces. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I serve with yogurt-orange chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with various sides like fluffy couscous, roasted vegetables, or a vibrant salad. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving with hummus or tzatziki for dipping.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately. Just reheat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier.
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).