Get ready for a burst of citrus and sweetness in every bite! Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken is one of those feel-good, weeknight dinner heroes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Tender pieces of chicken are bathed in a sticky, tangy glaze that strikes the perfect balance between fresh orange, honeyed sweetness, and a subtle savory kick. Whether you’re serving it over a pile of fluffy rice or alongside bright green veggies, this dish is bound to bring smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be surprised by how just a handful of pantry staples can come together to create something so vibrant and mouthwatering. Each ingredient plays its part, building depth and deliciousness while keeping the recipe manageable for busy days. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 1/2 pounds): Pick your favorite cut for juicy, tender bites that hold up perfectly in the glaze.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the chicken for irresistible color and flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the natural taste of the chicken and balances the sweet glaze.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just enough warmth to round out the glaze.
- Orange juice (1/2 cup, fresh or bottled): The star of the glaze—fresh is best, but bottled works great in a pinch!
- Honey (1/4 cup): Adds that luscious, sticky sweetness that makes the sauce shine.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Lends umami and a gentle saltiness to complement the orange.
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the glaze so it’s never too sweet.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (2 teaspoons each): Whisks away worries about a thin sauce by creating the perfect glossy glaze.
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon, optional): Brings subtle warmth and zip—skip it if you like, it’s still delicious.
- Garlic clove, minced (1): Adds aromatic depth and a touch of savory complexity.
- Orange zest & chopped green onions (for garnish): Don’t skip these—they add color and fresh fragrance right at the finish.
How to Make Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken pieces dry with paper towels, lay them on a board, and sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning does wonders, ensuring every bite is well-flavored and juicy right from the start.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, letting it take on a lovely golden color. If your pieces are thick, don’t be afraid to give them a little extra time to cook through; juicy and golden is the name of the game! Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Orange Glaze
In the same skillet, pour in the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger if you’re using it. Stir well, scraping up those yummy brown bits from the bottom—they’re packed with flavor! Let the sauce come to a simmer and bubble away for about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to mingle and deepen.
Step 4: Thicken the Glaze
Give your cornstarch and water mixture a quick stir, then slowly whisk it into the skillet. Keep stirring as the sauce magically transforms—within another 1 to 2 minutes, it’ll go from thin to beautifully glossy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Coat and Finish the Chicken
Carefully return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it right down into the glaze. Spoon the sauce over every piece, letting the chicken simmer gently for another 1 to 2 minutes until it’s piping hot and gleaming. Just before serving, sprinkle over a generous shower of orange zest and chopped green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! A finishing sprinkle of fresh orange zest brings out extra citrusy aroma, while the pop of chopped green onions adds both color and bite. You could even add a little fresh chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic pairing, soaking up that lovely glaze. For a lighter option, go with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or even a crisp Asian-inspired slaw. If you want to make it a total feast, serve alongside garlic noodles or roasted sweet potatoes for extra comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Need a show-stopping presentation? Try slicing the glazed chicken and arranging it over a bed of greens for a vibrant salad. Or, spoon extra glaze over rice bowls and scatter with colorful veggies for an Instagram-worthy meal. Mini skewers or lettuce wraps make fantastic appetizers for dinner parties as well!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken is a dream for next-day lunches or dinners. Simply transfer any cooled chicken and sauce to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better!
Freezing
If you want to freeze for later, place cooled chicken and glaze together in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To revive your Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken, simply reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen up the glaze. Microwave works too, just cover to prevent drying out. Be sure not to overcook, so the chicken stays tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Both work beautifully in this recipe. Thighs add extra juiciness and rich flavor, just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the pieces are a bit thicker.
Is Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free if you choose tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Always check your sauce labels if you’re avoiding gluten.
How can I make the glaze a bit spicy?
To add some zing, stir in a big pinch of red pepper flakes or even a small spoonful of sriracha during the simmering step. The sweet-spicy contrast is amazing!
What’s the best way to zest an orange?
Use a fine microplane or the smallest holes on your box grater. Zest only the bright orange layer, avoiding the white pith underneath to keep things fragrant—not bitter.
Can I double the glaze if I love it extra saucy?
Of course! Just increase all glaze ingredients proportionally. Extra sauce is fantastic spooned over rice, noodles, or even as a dip for veggies.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dinner that feels special but comes together in a flash, Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken is guaranteed to impress. Bring a splash of joy to your table tonight—one taste and you’ll see why this citrus-kissed chicken is destined to become a regular on your menu. Happy cooking!
Print
Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sweet Orange Glazed Chicken recipe combines tender chicken with a flavorful, sweet and tangy orange glaze. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Orange Glaze:
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Orange zest and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the glaze: In the same skillet, add orange juice, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger if using. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1–2 minutes.
- Glaze the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the glaze, simmering for another 1–2 minutes. Garnish with orange zest and chopped green onions. Serve warm with rice or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- You can double the glaze for extra saucy chicken or drizzle over rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
