Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the rich flavors of chicken with the bright sweetness of oranges. The combination of savory soy sauce, honey, and fresh herbs elevates the dish to a new level, making it an unforgettable meal for any gathering or a cozy family dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that is both impressive and easy to prepare, this roasted orange chicken is a fantastic choice. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. It’s perfect for meal prep, special occasions, or just a weeknight dinner that feels a little special.

How to Make Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 large navel oranges, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a roasting pan lightly with olive oil.
Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil.
Arrange orange slices on the bottom of the roasting pan. Place the chicken pieces on top.
Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
Roast for 25 minutes, basting the chicken halfway through with the pan juices.
Turn oven to broil and broil chicken for 3-5 minutes until caramelized and glossy.
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh orange slices and thyme.
Spoon pan sauce over chicken before serving.

How to Serve Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken

This dish can be served with a variety of sides. Pair it with fluffy jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The pan sauce is perfect drizzled over any side dish, enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Store Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken

Leftover roasted orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

Tips to Make Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken

For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours (or overnight) before roasting.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly – the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your preference.

Variation

Experimenting with different citrus fruits can lead to exciting variations of this dish. Try using tangerines, blood oranges, or grapefruits for a unique flavor profile. You can also add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to roast alongside the chicken for added color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time may be reduced. Aim for about 20 minutes of roasting, checking for doneness.
What can I substitute for orange juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can use other citrus juices such as lemon or lime, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
While the primary ingredient is chicken, you could substitute it with firm tofu or vegetable-based protein. Adjust the seasoning and marinade accordingly.