Orange Baked Chicken

Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this luscious Orange Baked Chicken, a blend of savory and citrusy perfection that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This recipe features tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs baked to golden perfection in a flavor-packed marinade made with freshly squeezed orange juice, zesty orange zest, honey, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce. The key to its irresistible taste lies in the sticky, tangy orange glaze that thickens to a luscious consistency, adding a sweet and savory finish to every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is a show-stopper for gatherings or a nourishing family meal. Serve it with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying dish that’s bursting with vibrant citrus flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 cup Orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon Orange zest
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons Honey
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons Water

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

Step 3

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Reserve the other half of the marinade for later use. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (optional but recommended).

Step 4

Transfer the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up to the prepared baking dish. Discard the used marinade.

Step 5

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, basting with the juices from the dish every 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Step 6

While the chicken bakes, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 7

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering marinade, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens to a glaze-like consistency.

Step 8

Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Brush the thickened orange glaze over the chicken for extra flavor.

Step 9

Serve the Orange Baked Chicken hot, garnished with additional orange zest or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1025.8 grams (1025.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1877

Total Fat 121.90g	156%
Saturated Fat 30.90g	155%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 486mg	162%
Sodium 4014mg	175%
Total Carbohydrate 92.30g	34%
Dietary Fiber 2.80g	10%
Total Sugars 72.10g
Protein 113.60g	227%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 133mg	10%
Iron 8mg	42%
Potassium 1797mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.1%

Protein: 23.7%

Carbs: 19.2%