WEEKNIGHT CHICKEN

Orange Glazed Chicken

Golden bite-size chicken coated in a sticky orange sauce with zest, soy, garlic, and ginger.

Orange Glazed Chicken has crisp-edged chicken pieces coated in a bright, glossy orange, soy, garlic, and ginger sauce. The stovetop method keeps the cooking and sauce-building in one pan.

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Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings4
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil

For the Orange Sauce

  • 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Serving

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Cooked rice

Substitutions

  • For Orange Glazed Chicken, Use breast or thigh meat cut into equal bite-size pieces so the orange-glazed chicken cooks evenly; every piece should reach 165°F.
  • Honey and maple syrup can usually be exchanged in the same amount, although the flavor and moisture will change slightly.

Instructions

Step 1: Coat the chicken

Season chicken and toss with cornstarch until each piece is lightly coated.

Coat the chicken for Orange Glazed Chicken

Step 2: Brown

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, turning until browned and the thickest pieces reach 165°F.

Brown for Orange Glazed Chicken

Step 3: Mix the sauce

Whisk orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.

Step 4: Glaze

Pour sauce into the empty skillet and simmer 3 minutes. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy.

Glaze for Orange Glazed Chicken

Step 5: Combine

Return chicken to the pan and toss for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Finished Orange Glazed Chicken ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

Cool Orange Glazed Chicken promptly, cover it, and refrigerate within 2 hours. Use leftovers within 3 to 4 days and store fresh or crisp components separately.

How to Reheat

Reheat Orange Glazed Chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of its sauce or water only when needed and stop once hot.

What to Serve With It

  • Rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • A green salad
  • Crusty bread for the sauce

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • For Orange Glazed Chicken, crowding the pan and steaming the ingredients.
  • For Orange Glazed Chicken, adding sugar, garlic, or dairy over excessive heat.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 460
Protein 35g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fat 16g
Sugar 25g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know the poultry in Orange Glazed Chicken is done?

Check the thickest piece for 165°F and use the recipe’s visual cue: Cook the chicken in batches for 6 to 8 minutes, turning until browned and the thickest pieces reach 165°F.

What substitution works well in Orange Glazed Chicken?

Use breast or thigh meat cut into equal bite-size pieces so the orange-glazed chicken cooks evenly; every piece should reach 165°F.

About the Author

Written and edited by the FreshFork Recipes Team.

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