Homemade Orange Glazed Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Weeknight Dinner
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this incredible Orange Glazed Chicken. Featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and tangy orange glaze, this recipe is bursting with flavor and surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s a delightful departure from typical takeout, promising a wholesome meal the entire family will love.
Finding a dinner recipe that satisfies everyone can often feel like an impossible task. Between busy schedules, varying dietary preferences, and the desire for something truly delicious, meal planning can become a source of stress. But what if there was a dish that was not only incredibly easy to make but also universally adored? This homemade Orange Glazed Chicken is here to be your new go-to. Forget the bland or overly sweet versions you might have encountered; this recipe delivers authentic, vibrant orange flavor paired with a savory depth that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about orange chicken.
Unlike many overly sweet Chinese takeout orange chicken dishes that can leave you feeling sluggish, our recipe focuses on a harmonious blend of real orange zest and juice, subtle sweetness from brown sugar and honey, and a robust savory backbone from a unique spice blend. The result is a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that tastes gourmet but is entirely approachable for any home cook. It’s the perfect solution for a flavorful dinner without the fuss, bringing excitement back to your dinner table any night of the week.
Essential Ingredients for Our Orange Glazed Chicken
You’ll find the complete, printable recipe card with precise measurements at the very bottom of this post.
One of the best aspects of this Orange Glazed Chicken is that it relies on readily available ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. We prioritize fresh, simple components to create maximum flavor without unnecessary complexity. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this fantastic dish:
- **Chicken Breasts:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are our choice for their lean protein and quick cooking time.
- **Olive Oil:** Essential for searing the chicken and building a foundational flavor.
- **Salt & Pepper:** Basic seasonings to enhance the chicken’s natural taste before glazing.
- **Orange Juice:** The star of our glaze! You can opt for freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest, most authentic flavor, or use high-quality bottled orange juice for convenience. If using fresh, consider adding a few orange slices to the skillet while it bakes for an aromatic touch.
- **Apple Cider Vinegar:** This adds a crucial tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the glaze, creating a more complex and balanced flavor profile.
- **Brown Sugar:** Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that is less refined than white sugar, adding richness to the glaze.
- **Honey:** Contributes a natural, floral sweetness and helps achieve that desirable glossy texture in the glaze.
- **Chili Powder:** Don’t let the name mislead you! This adds a subtle warmth and earthy depth, not overwhelming heat, which is key to our unique savory profile.
- **Paprika:** Offers a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the glaze.
- **Cumin:** A touch of ground cumin brings an earthy, smoky undertone that truly sets this orange chicken apart from traditional Asian-inspired versions.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the multi-layered flavor of this dish. From the bright citrus of the orange juice to the warm, earthy notes of the spices, every component contributes to a truly memorable meal. Using fresh squeezed orange juice also allows you to incorporate some zest into the glaze for an even more intense orange aroma and taste. Alternatively, a good quality bottled orange juice works perfectly well and saves time.
Crafting Our Signature Orange Glaze
The magic of this Orange Glazed Chicken truly lies in its incredible glaze. This isn’t your typical overly sweet, one-note sauce often found in fast-food versions of orange chicken. Our glaze is a symphony of flavors: bright and tangy from fresh orange juice, perfectly sweet from a blend of brown sugar and honey, and deeply savory with a hint of warmth from our special mix of chili powder, paprika, and cumin. This thoughtful combination creates an irresistible coating that elevates simple chicken breasts into a truly extraordinary meal.
Developing this rich glaze requires a little bit of simmering time to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to a luxurious consistency. This process is crucial, as it concentrates the orange essence and creates that beautiful, sticky coating we all crave. The good news is that this step is incredibly flexible! You can easily prepare the glaze entirely ahead of time – perhaps over the weekend or during a quieter moment in your day – and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. When you’re ready for dinner, simply warm it up and proceed with cooking the chicken. This make-ahead option makes weeknight cooking a breeze and ensures you always have a delicious component ready for a quick meal.
When simmering, watch for the glaze to reduce and coat the back of a spoon. It should be thick enough to cling to the chicken, creating that beautiful, glistening finish. Don’t rush this process; the patience will be rewarded with an unparalleled depth of flavor that defines this dish. If you find your glaze isn’t thickening quite enough after the recommended time, you can always whisk in a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and simmer for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency. This glaze is truly the heart of the recipe, delivering a unique taste that stands out from any other orange chicken you’ve tried.
How To Make Orange Glazed Chicken: A Simple Guide
Preparing this Orange Glazed Chicken is straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal:
- **Prepare the Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, chili powder, paprika, and cumin. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it gently bubble for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has visibly thickened and coats the back of a spoon. It should reduce by about one-third. Set aside.
- **Preheat Your Oven:** While the glaze simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken will cook through perfectly after searing.
- **Season the Chicken:** Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy – proper seasoning is key to flavor.
- **Sear the Chicken:** Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully here) over high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get shimmering hot. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This searing step locks in juices and adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- **Glaze and Bake:** Flip the chicken pieces over. Pour the prepared orange glaze evenly over the seared chicken. You can use a spoon or brush to ensure each piece is well coated. Transfer the skillet directly to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer at its thickest part.
- **Rest and Serve:** Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and moist chicken. Spoon any remaining glaze from the skillet over the chicken when serving.
Perfect Pairings: What To Serve With Orange Glazed Chicken
This Orange Glazed Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal based on your preferences or what you have on hand. The vibrant, sweet, and savory flavors of the chicken complement both simple and more elaborate accompaniments. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complete your meal:
- **Instant Pot Jasmine Rice:** A classic choice! Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible orange glaze. It offers a neutral base that lets the chicken’s flavors shine.
- **Air Fryer Potato Wedges:** For a heartier side, crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch and a comforting contrast to the tender chicken. Their slightly salty flavor balances the glaze beautifully.
- **Tossed Salad:** A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent way to add freshness and a touch of acidity to cut through the richness of the glaze. It adds a welcome crunch and lightness.
- **Roasted Green Beans:** Simple yet elegant, roasted green beans (perhaps with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a hint of garlic) add a vibrant green color and tender-crisp texture. They provide a healthy, earthy counterpoint to the sweet and tangy chicken.
- **Steamed Broccoli:** A quick and healthy option that adds nutrients and a subtle bitterness to complement the sweet glaze.
- **Quinoa or Couscous:** For a more wholesome grain alternative, quinoa or couscous can absorb the sauce and offer a different texture profile.
- **Cauliflower Rice:** A low-carb option that still allows you to enjoy the delicious glaze.
- **Sautéed Asparagus:** Delicate and flavorful, asparagus provides an elegant side that cooks quickly.
What truly makes this orange chicken special is its unique flavor profile that doesn’t scream “Asian food.” Many orange glaze recipes heavily rely on soy sauce and ginger, which are delicious but can be limiting. Our recipe intentionally broadens the flavor palette with spices like chili powder and cumin, giving it a depth that is distinctly savory, warm, and comforting, while still remaining simple and using everyday ingredients. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking for something different from the usual.
Choosing the Right Chicken for Your Orange Glazed Dish
While this recipe specifically calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, its adaptable nature means you have options when it comes to the cut of chicken. The key is to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature and that you adjust cooking times accordingly for different cuts. Regardless of your choice, always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is safe and delicious to eat.
- **Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless):** Our recommended choice. They cook relatively quickly and evenly, becoming beautifully tender when seared and baked in the glaze. For thicker breasts, you might consider pounding them slightly to an even thickness (about 1 inch) to ensure uniform cooking. You could also cut them into bite-sized pieces before searing for a more “nugget-style” dish, which might appeal to children.
- **Chicken Thighs (Boneless, Skinless):** A fantastic alternative! Chicken thighs are inherently more flavorful and forgiving than breasts, remaining juicy even if slightly overcooked. They will likely require a slightly longer cooking time in the oven, perhaps an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on their size. Adjusting for thighs will result in a richer, more succulent dish.
- **Chicken Drumsticks:** If you prefer bone-in chicken, drumsticks are a great option for this recipe. However, be aware that the cooking time in the oven will be considerably longer – potentially 30-45 minutes or more – as the bone slows down heat transfer. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature carefully. The bone-in aspect can add even more flavor to the glaze as it bakes.
- **Chicken Tenders:** For an even quicker meal, chicken tenders can be used. Their smaller size means they will cook very rapidly, often just 10-15 minutes in the oven after a quick sear. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out easily.
No matter which cut you choose, ensure you pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust, which adds a wonderful texture and flavor dimension to the finished dish. Also, always use a reliable meat thermometer to check for doneness, especially when experimenting with different cuts or sizes of chicken. This ensures food safety and optimal texture.
More Tasty Chicken Dinner Recipes to Explore
If you loved this Orange Glazed Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins, perfect for quick weeknight meals or impressive Sunday dinners. We have a whole collection of fantastic chicken recipes that are sure to become family favorites. Explore these delicious options for more inspiration:
- **Chicken Caesar Salad:** A light, refreshing, and classic choice for a quick lunch or dinner.
- **French Onion Chicken:** All the comforting flavors of French onion soup, but in a savory chicken dish.
- **Sous Vide Chicken Breasts:** Achieve perfectly tender and juicy chicken every single time with this method.
- **Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:** Crispy, delicious chicken tenders made healthier in your air fryer.
- **Chili’s Margarita Grilled Chicken:** Recreate a restaurant favorite at home with this zesty, grilled chicken.
- **Chicken Satay Stir Fry:** A flavorful and quick stir-fry packed with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken.
- **Easy Chicken Fajitas:** Sizzling and spicy, perfect for a fun family meal night.
- **Southwest Baked Chicken:** Infused with bold Southwestern flavors, baked to perfection.
Orange Glazed Chicken
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Ingredients
Orange Glaze
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts, 4-6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
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To make glaze mix together orange juice, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, chili powder, paprika, and cumin in a small saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil and simmer for about 25 minutes until mixture starts to thicken.
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Preheat oven to 400º F.
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Season chicken with salt and pepper.
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Heat a large skillet over high heat and add oil. Once it is hot sear chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on first side until it browned.
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Flip pieces of chicken over and pour glaze over chicken. Place in oven for about 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165º F.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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