orange spice chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best orange spice chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share this amazing orange spice chicken recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had to make it again and again.

The combination of flavors and textures is just perfect – the sweetness of the orange, the spiciness of the spices, and the tenderness of the chicken all come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. My kids love it when I serve this for dinner, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) It’s a great way to get them to eat more veggies too, as they can’t resist the flavorful sauce that comes with it.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. As a bonus, this recipe is also super healthy – the chicken is baked instead of fried, and the orange juice adds a nice dose of vitamin C. I like to serve it with some roasted veggies on the side for a well-rounded meal.

It’s also super versatile – you can use different types of chicken or add your favorite spices to make it your own. The key technique here is using a mixture of spices to give it that authentic flavor – don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite combinations! This dish has become a staple in our household for so many reasons – it’s delicious, easy to make, and packed with nutrients.

My family loves it when I serve this for dinner or lunch, and I know yours will too once you try it out! We like to have family game nights while enjoying this dish – it’s always a hit! The aroma alone will have everyone’s stomach growling in anticipation.

So go ahead, give this recipe a try and see why we love it so much!

Orange Spice Chicken

4.6 from 1043 votes

A fragrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory orange sauce with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Orange Spice Sauce

1 cup fresh orange juice
2 tbsp orange zest
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
3Place the chicken thighs in the skillet in a single layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
5In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6Pour in the orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper, then whisk to combine.
7Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens.
8Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
9Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
10Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is glossy.
11Remove the skillet from the heat and let the chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving.
12Garnish with additional orange zest or fresh herbs if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Citrus juicer
Small bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 140mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a milder spice level, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but adjust cooking time to prevent drying out.

Watch Video Of How Orange Spice Chicken Works

This orange spice chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just want something delicious and easy for dinner.

It works well for family gatherings too – my kids love helping me mix up the spices and tenders are always thrilled when they get seconds (and sometimes even thirds!)

You can reheat leftovers by baking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through – about 15-20 minutes depending on how many pieces are left over.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Spice Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If you prefer white meat, breasts are the way to go; if you prefer darker meat, thighs are your best bet.

Q: Can I substitute the orange juice with something else?

While orange juice is an essential component of this recipe, you can substitute it with other citrus juices like lemon or lime if you don’t have oranges handy.

Q: How do I store leftover orange spice chicken?

You can store leftover orange spice chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe without using any spices at all?

Nope! While you can adjust the amount of spices used in this recipe, omitting them altogether will result in a bland dish that lacks flavor.

Q: Can I serve this dish at room temperature?

Nope! While you can serve some dishes at room temperature, orange spice chicken is best served hot straight from the oven.

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