Roasted Orange Chicken is one of those dishes that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. The combination of juicy, tender chicken and the bright, sweet tang of orange is simply irresistible. As the chicken roasts, the citrusy flavors meld beautifully with savory spices and aromatic herbs, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing, making it a go-to for family dinners, special occasions, or holiday feasts when you want to wow your guests with something unique.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Orange Chicken Recipe?

• Bright and Refreshing Flavor: The orange glaze adds a burst of citrus flavor, making the chicken taste vibrant and fresh.
• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory: The combination of orange juice and zest with savory herbs and spices creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
• Simple Yet Impressive: This dish is easy to prepare but looks and tastes impressive, making it a great option for dinner parties or festive meals.
• Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat: Roasting the chicken ensures a crispy, golden-brown skin while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the orange glaze to suit your taste, making it versatile for all preferences.

Ingredients

• 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)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prepare the Chicken: Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. This will help the skin get crispy while roasting.
• Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, making sure to coat the entire bird evenly.

Prepare the Orange Glaze:

• Make the Orange Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.

Roast the Chicken:

• Stuff the Chicken: Place the quartered onion inside the cavity of the chicken for extra flavor during roasting.
• Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken on a roasting pan, breast side up. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the pan to keep it moist while it roasts.
• Brush with Orange Glaze: Brush the chicken with the prepared orange glaze, reserving some glaze for later basting and serving.
• Roast the Chicken: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with more glaze to ensure a beautiful caramelized finish.

Finish and Serve:

• Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.
• Serve: Serve the roasted chicken with the pan juices and additional orange glaze on the side for drizzling.

Recipe from Succulent Recipes