Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

When I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is Asian Glazed Orange Chicken. This dish has a magical ability to transform an ordinary day into something special. I remember the first time I made it; the vibrant aroma of orange zest and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. It was a chilly evening, and I craved something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. As I watched the chicken sizzle in the pan, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the feast that awaited. This recipe quickly became a staple in my home, loved by family and friends, and it’s perfect for any occasion!

Asian Glazed Orange Chicken Ingredients

The ingredients for Asian Glazed Orange Chicken are not just staples; they create a harmonious blend of flavors. The key players, like the fresh orange juice and hoisin sauce, come together to form a glaze that’s both sweet and savory. This combination ensures that the dish is bursting with flavor and makes it a true crowd-pleaser.

• 8 skinless boneless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, these thighs are the perfect canvas for the flavorful glaze.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken, enhancing its natural flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, giving it a nice crust.
• 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice – Provides the signature citrus flavor that defines this dish.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and richness to the glaze.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Balances the acidity of the orange juice, creating a delightful sweetness.
• ½ cup hoisin sauce – Contributes a unique, sweet-savory flavor that is integral to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed – Imparts a wonderful aroma and flavor to the sauce.
• 2 heaping tablespoons orange zest – Intensifies the orange flavor, making it vibrant and fresh.
• 1-inch knob fresh ginger, peeled and grated – Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce – Introduces a hint of heat, adding complexity to the glaze.
• Cilantro leaves and additional sliced orange, for garnish – Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

How to Prepare Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Making Asian Glazed Orange Chicken is not only rewarding but also quite fun! Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. With a bit of attention to detail, you’ll have a beautifully glazed chicken ready in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that once your chicken is seared, it will bake perfectly in the oven.

2. Take your chicken thighs and season them generously with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the chicken’s natural flavors.

3. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add half of the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan. Sear them until they are lightly browned on both sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Transfer the seared chicken thighs to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining thighs. This step is crucial for achieving a nice crust on the chicken.

5. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: fresh squeezed orange juice, chicken broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, orange zest, grated ginger, and sriracha sauce. Whisk them together until well combined.

6. Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan you used to sear the chicken. Cook it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces by about a third, which should take around 5 to 10 minutes.

7. Add the seared chicken thighs back to the pan, coating them with the sauce. Once they are well covered, transfer the pan to the preheated oven.

8. Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken.

9. Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter, tenting it with aluminum foil to keep warm. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute.

10. Continue cooking the glaze on the stovetop over medium heat until it reduces further, thickening beautifully. Drizzle the glaze over the chicken once it’s ready to serve.

11. Garnish with cilantro leaves and additional sliced oranges if desired. This final touch not only enhances the presentation but adds freshness.

Things Worth Knowing

Ways to Customize

There are endless possibilities to make Asian Glazed Orange Chicken your own! Here are some great tips for customizing the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce to control the heat level. You can also add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free hoisin sauce to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding different citrus juices like lime or lemon for a unique taste.
• Marinate Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for one to two hours before cooking.
• Leftovers: Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads or wraps for quick lunches.

What to Serve Alongside Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

Pairing dishes with Asian Glazed Orange Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions for what to serve alongside:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the delicious glaze, making every bite perfect.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots will not only complement the chicken but also add a nutritious boost.
• Asian Noodle Salad: A refreshing cold noodle salad with sesame dressing is a great contrast to the warm chicken.
• Spring Rolls: Crunchy vegetable spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer or side.
• Wonton Soup: A light and flavorful wonton soup can be a comforting start to your meal.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple can act as a palate cleanser.
• Green Salad: Serve a simple green salad with a sesame vinaigrette for a fresh touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about Asian Glazed Orange Chicken. Its deliciously sweet and savory glaze combined with tender chicken thighs makes it a standout dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it yourself, as it’s not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will surely become a favorite!

Asian Glazed Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Asian Glazed Orange Chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs are glazed in a vibrant orange sauce, making every bite a delightful experience. Try it tonight for an easy yet impressive meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 pieces skinless boneless chicken thighs
• to taste Kosher salt
• to taste freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (from about 3-4 oranges)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup hoisin sauce
• 4 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (heaping)
• 1 inch knob fresh ginger (peeled and grated, about 1 teaspoon total)
• 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
• to garnish Cilantro leaves and additional sliced orange

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Grater
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that once your chicken is seared, it will bake perfectly in the oven.
2. Take your chicken thighs and season them generously with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the chicken's natural flavors.
3. Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add half of the seasoned chicken thighs to the pan. Sear them until they are lightly browned on both sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Transfer the seared chicken thighs to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining thighs. This step is crucial for achieving a nice crust on the chicken.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: fresh squeezed orange juice, chicken broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, orange zest, grated ginger, and sriracha sauce. Whisk them together until well combined.
6. Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan you used to sear the chicken. Cook it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces by about a third, which should take around 5 to 10 minutes.
7. Add the seared chicken thighs back to the pan, coating them with the sauce. Once they are well covered, transfer the pan to the preheated oven.
8. Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken.
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter, tenting it with aluminum foil to keep warm. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute.
10. Continue cooking the glaze on the stovetop over medium heat until it reduces further, thickening beautifully. Drizzle the glaze over the chicken once it's ready to serve.
11. Garnish with cilantro leaves and additional sliced oranges if desired. This final touch not only enhances the presentation but adds freshness.

Notes

• Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure it's juicy and tender.
• Reducing Sauce: The longer you reduce the sauce, the thicker and richer it will become. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• Garnishes Matter: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and orange slices; they elevate the dish both in flavor and appearance.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for food safety.

Previous PostThai Style Drunken Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Honey Chicken

Next Post Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.