Roasted Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the juicy, tender flavors of chicken with the bright, sweet tang of orange. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious, zesty main course. The balance of citrusy orange, savory spices, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering meal that is both comforting and refreshing. Roasting the chicken enhances its flavor, making it crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. If you’re looking to try a fresh take on roasted chicken, this recipe is a must-try!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep work and straightforward steps, making it accessible for all home cooks.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange zest and juice with herbs creates an unforgettable taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits all settings.
Impressive Presentation: A beautifully roasted chicken garnished with oranges will wow your guests.
Versatile Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers in salads, sandwiches, or as a tasty addition to rice dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make Roasted Orange Chicken successfully, you need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools help streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Roasting pan
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Roasting pan: Provides an even cooking surface and allows for proper airflow around the chicken.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely without drying it out.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Zest and juice of 2 large oranges
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 small onion, quartered
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter (optional)

How to Make Roasted Orange Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Roasted Orange Chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until well blended.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the whole chicken in a roasting pan.
Pour the marinade over the chicken.
Massage it into the skin for maximum flavor.
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Surround the chicken with quartered onion in the roasting pan. This adds flavor while cooking.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Pour chicken broth into the pan.
Place in preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Optional: Baste with melted butter halfway through cooking for extra richness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through:
1. Remove from oven and let rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Carve and serve with roasted onions and drizzled marinade for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Roasted Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Roasted Orange Chicken

Roasted Orange Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its zesty flavors. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some perfect serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve with Thyme Sprigs: Place fresh thyme sprigs alongside the chicken for an aromatic touch.

On a Bed of Rice

Citrus Rice: Serve over fluffy rice cooked with orange zest and juice to complement the chicken’s flavors.
Pilaf Style: Try a fragrant pilaf with almonds and raisins for a nutty crunch.

Accompanied by Vegetables

Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini drizzled with olive oil.
Steamed Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a bright contrast and are easy to prepare.

With Salad

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, oranges, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds texture and freshness.

As Sandwiches

Orange Chicken Sandwiches: Shred leftover chicken and serve it on crusty bread with lettuce and mayo for a delicious lunch option.
Wraps: Use tortillas to wrap sliced Roasted Orange Chicken with avocado and spinach for a quick meal.

How to Perfect Roasted Orange Chicken

To ensure your Roasted Orange Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these valuable tips.

Marination: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor absorption from the orange juice and spices.
Proper Temperature: Roast at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking; this helps achieve crispy skin without drying out the meat.
Baste Regularly: Baste the chicken every 20 minutes with its juices to keep it moist and enhance flavor.
Rest Before Carving: Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy slices.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Enhance Flavor with Butter: For extra richness, brush melted butter over the skin just before finishing in the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Orange Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Roasted Orange Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs well with citrusy chicken.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers a healthy, colorful side full of texture.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy make a fun finger food option that everyone loves.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus adds elegance to your plate while keeping flavors light and fresh.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad featuring oranges, berries, and mint enhances the citrus theme of your meal.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked on the grill or boiled delivers sweetness that balances well against savory chicken notes.
Cauliflower Rice: Light cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs is an excellent low-carb alternative that complements any dish wonderfully.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese brings Mediterranean flair to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Roasted Orange Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can help you achieve the best results. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

Ignoring the chicken size: Using a chicken that is too large or small can affect cooking time and texture. Always choose a chicken around 4-5 pounds for even roasting.
Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken in orange juice and spices can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour for maximum flavor infusion.
Not preheating the oven: Cooking chicken in an unheated oven may result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to ensure that it reaches the right temperature before placing the chicken inside.
Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many ingredients in the roasting pan can cause steaming instead of roasting. Use a large enough pan so that air circulates freely around the chicken.
Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, leading to dryness. Letting it rest for 10-15 minutes helps retain its juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Roasted Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Roasted Orange Chicken

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Orange Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, keeping it moist.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: Place pieces in a skillet with a splash of broth, cover, and heat on low until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Roasted Orange Chicken:

How do I make Roasted Orange Chicken more flavorful?

Add extra herbs like oregano or marjoram, or include additional spices like paprika or cumin in your marinade for enhanced flavor.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! Lemons or limes can be used instead of oranges for a different citrus twist on this roasted chicken recipe.

What side dishes pair well with Roasted Orange Chicken?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How long does it take to cook Roasted Orange Chicken?

The total cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken and your oven’s accuracy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Roasted Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Orange Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and can adapt to different tastes. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or side dishes!

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Roasted Orange Chicken

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Author: Ana
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Roasted Orange Chicken is a show-stopping dish that marries the succulent flavors of juicy chicken with the refreshing sweetness of oranges. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a festive gathering. The harmonious blend of citrusy orange juice and zest, aromatic herbs, and savory spices results in a mouthwatering meal that’s both comforting and impressive. Roasting the chicken ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Treat your taste buds to this delightful roasted dish that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Zest and juice of 2 large oranges
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 small onion, quartered
1 cup chicken broth

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the marinade over it; massage into the skin. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
Surround the chicken with quartered onion and pour chicken broth into the pan.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with melted butter halfway through if desired.
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American