Amazing Easy Honey Orange Glazed Chicken
Amazing Easy Honey Orange Glazed Chicken
Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight meal! Our Amazing Easy Honey Orange Glazed Chicken is an absolute showstopper that comes together with minimal effort. Imagine perfectly tender chicken bathed in a glossy, sticky-sweet, and wonderfully tangy glaze that dances on your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds, yet it’s simple enough for even the busiest evenings. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this unbelievably flavorful and easy-to-make chicken!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6-8 thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Honey Orange Glaze:
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (from 1-2 oranges)
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Optional Garnish: Orange zest, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken. Pat the chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs to the pan in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd. Sear for 4-6 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Make the Honey Orange Glaze. While the chicken cooks, whisk together the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth and no lumps of cornstarch remain.
- Step 4: Thicken the Glaze. Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-low. Pour the glaze mixture into the hot pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly, until the glaze thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 5: Coat the Chicken. Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, turning to coat them thoroughly in the sticky glaze. Let them simmer in the glaze for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are fully warmed through and beautifully coated.
- Step 6: Serve. Remove from heat and transfer the chicken to serving plates. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the chicken. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest and chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice or steamed vegetables.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and ability to stay moist, but chicken breasts can be used. If using breasts, cook them for a shorter time to avoid drying out, and slice them before glazing for best results.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Using freshly squeezed orange juice makes a significant difference in the vibrancy and freshness of the glaze flavor.
- Glaze Consistency: If your glaze isn't thickening enough, simmer it for another minute or two. If it's too thick, add a tablespoon of water or orange juice to thin it slightly.
- Make it Spicy: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze mixture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This chicken holds up well as leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or a skillet.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 380-420 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-18g (Total), 4-5g (Saturated)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
- Sugars: Approximately 20-22g
- Sodium: Approximately 450-500mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I bake this chicken instead of searing? A: Yes! You can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Prepare the glaze separately on the stovetop and then toss the baked chicken in the glaze, or brush it on during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Q: What kind of oranges should I use? A: Navel oranges or Valencia oranges are perfect for their sweet and tangy juice.
- Q: Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can whisk the glaze ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Whisk again before using.
- Q: What are good side dishes for this chicken? A: Steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, roasted broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad are all excellent choices.
- Q: My glaze turned out lumpy. What happened? A: This usually happens if the cornstarch isn't fully dissolved before heating or if it's added directly to a hot liquid without being mixed into a slurry first. Always whisk it thoroughly with the cold liquids until smooth before heating.