There’s something about the sweet and tangy flavor of Roasted Orange Chicken that just brings me back to my childhood. I can vividly remember my mom whipping it up on special occasions, filling our house with an irresistible aroma that had all of us hanging around the kitchen. The vibrant orange, with its shiny glaze, always looked so inviting! Just the sight of it made our mouths water in anticipation. I’ve carried that love into my own home, and it never fails to impress my family and friends.
What I love most about this recipe is not just how delicious it tastes but also how simple it is to prepare. It gives you that fancy feeling of a restaurant-quality dish, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Plus, oranges are in season during the winter months, so it’s a delightful way to brighten up those chilly evenings!
What’s in Roasted Orange Chicken?
Whole Chicken: The star of the show! I usually go for a good organic chicken; they’re often tastier and have fewer additives compared to conventional chicken.
Oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zests from juicy oranges create that signature tangy flavor. I love using organic oranges when I can find them; it makes a difference!
Garlic: This little bulb packs a punch! Fresh garlic gives depth and aroma to the dish. Plus, who can resist the smell of roasting garlic?
Honey: A little sweetness to balance out the citrus. I prefer local honey—it just has this cozy flavor and helps support local beekeepers.
Soy Sauce: Brings a savory umami flavor to the marinade. I usually opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things a bit healthier.
Olive Oil: Just a touch helps to crisp up the skin and keep everything juicy. I’ve gravitated towards extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning!
Is Roasted Orange Chicken Good for You?
This dish packs quite a punch when it comes to health benefits!
Chicken: A great source of protein; it supports muscle health, and with the skin left on while roasting, it’s packed with flavor (though it’s fine to remove the skin for a leaner option).
Oranges: These juicy citrus fruits are a vitamin C powerhouse! They can boost your immune system and add a refreshing taste to the dish.
Garlic: Known for its health benefits, garlic can help support heart health and has antioxidant properties, so it’s a win-win in my book.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the soy sauce and consider a low-sodium option. Additionally, go easy on the honey if you’re monitoring sugar intake.
Gather Your Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
– 2 large oranges (for juice and zest)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
How to Make Roasted Orange Chicken?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The smell of roasting chicken will fill your kitchen soon enough!
2. In a bowl, mix the juice and zest of the oranges, minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will be your delicious marinade.
3. Place the whole chicken on a roasting pan. Gently lift the skin and rub some marinade underneath for extra flavor (just keep it a little gentle; we’re not trying to tear it apart!).
4. Rub the remaining marinade all over the chicken. Don’t be stingy; you want every inch to soak it up!
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). I usually baste the chicken a couple of times with the juices—trust me, it makes a difference!
6. Let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps to keep it juicy!
Tips for a Perfect Roast
– Pair it with some roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil for a colorful plate!
– If you want a crunchy texture, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
– Save any leftover marinade for drizzling over rice or veggies—nothing goes to waste in my kitchen!
I hope you love this Roasted Orange Chicken as much as I do! It’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. When you try it, let me know how it goes! Happy cooking!
