Name: Orange Glazed Chicken: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound (454 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) grape seed oil or other high flash point oil (canola, peanut, etc.); 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) fresh orange juice; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce; 3 tablespoons (45 g) brown sugar; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) finely grated orange zest; Chopped cilantro or parsley, for garnish; Rice, couscous, or quinoa, for serving

If you’re craving a zesty twist on classic chicken, this Orange Glazed Chicken recipe is the perfect choice. Bursting with fresh citrus flavor, it combines juicy chicken pieces with a homemade orange glaze that’s both sweet and tangy. Using real orange juice and zest gives this dish a vibrant freshness that makes it stand out from takeout versions. It’s quick, healthy, and ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Glazed Chicken

This dish is a beautiful balance of savory and sweet with a subtle tang that elevates simple chicken into something special. It’s made with wholesome ingredients, easy to prepare, and ready in about 30 minutes. Unlike heavy fried versions, this recipe uses fresh orange juice and a light glaze, making it a healthier yet indulgent choice for any season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken breast: Tender and lean protein base that absorbs the orange glaze beautifully.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh ground black pepper: Adds gentle spice and depth.
• Grape seed oil: Great for searing due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
• Fresh orange juice: The heart of the glaze, delivering vibrant sweetness and tang.
• Soy sauce: Provides umami depth and balances the citrus.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize.
• Orange zest: Intensifies citrus aroma and flavor for a bright finish.
• Cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs that add color and a pop of freshness.
• Rice, couscous, or quinoa: Perfect bases for serving and soaking up extra glaze.

Ingredient Swaps and Alternatives

If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled orange juice works fine, though fresh-squeezed brings more brightness. Try honey instead of brown sugar for a smoother sweetness or tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Want extra crunch? Lightly coat the chicken with cornstarch before cooking. You can also substitute chicken thighs for added juiciness.

How to Make Orange Glazed Chicken Step-by-Step

Prepare the glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until reduced to about half a cup. It should coat the back of a spoon and have a sticky consistency. Stir in orange zest and set aside.
Cook the chicken:
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 3–5 minutes per side.
Combine and coat:
Pour the orange glaze over the cooked chicken. Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is fully coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve hot over rice, quinoa, or couscous.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Glazed Chicken

• Use fresh juice and zest: Fresh oranges give unmatched flavor intensity.
• Don’t rush the glaze: Let it simmer long enough to thicken; that sticky texture is key.
• Avoid overcooking chicken: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly—watch closely to keep them tender.
• Adjust sweetness: If your oranges are very sweet, reduce sugar slightly.
• Double the sauce: It’s so delicious, you’ll want extra to drizzle over your side dishes.

Serving Ideas and Flavor Variations

Pair this Orange Glazed Chicken with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or garlic green beans for a balanced meal. Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch, or drizzle a touch of chili oil for a spicy twist. For a festive presentation, garnish with thin orange slices or extra zest.

You can also turn this into an Orange Glazed Chicken bowl with brown rice, edamame, and avocado slices for a wholesome, modern take. To make it meal-prep friendly, cook and store the chicken and glaze separately, then combine when reheating to maintain texture.

The Fresh Orange Advantage

Using fresh oranges not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition. Oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immunity and skin health. By juicing your own oranges, you ensure the sauce remains free from added preservatives or concentrates—just pure, natural citrus goodness.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of orange juice or water to loosen the glaze. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent the sauce from becoming overly thick.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Glazed Chicken recipe proves that simple ingredients can create restaurant-quality results. Its bright citrus glaze, juicy chicken, and ease of preparation make it a go-to for any home cook who loves flavorful yet healthy meals. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting dinner guests, this dish is sure to impress with its golden glaze and irresistible aroma.

Bringing It All Together

This Orange Glazed Chicken recipe is a celebration of freshness, flavor, and simplicity. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The balance of sweet orange glaze and savory chicken makes it versatile enough for family dinners, meal prep, or even a quick weeknight indulgence.

Whether you use navels, cara caras, or blood oranges, the bright citrus zest transforms the glaze into something extraordinary. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never crave takeout again—it’s cleaner, healthier, and packed with real orange flavor in every bite.

Serve it with your favorite grains or veggies, and you’ve got a balanced, vibrant meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Glazed Chicken

1. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh oranges?

Yes, you can substitute bottled orange juice if you’re short on time, but fresh juice gives a brighter, more natural citrus flavor. If you do use bottled juice, choose one without added sugar or concentrate to keep the glaze balanced.

2. What’s the best way to thicken the orange glaze?

Let the glaze simmer over medium heat until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon. For a thicker texture, you can also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) near the end of cooking.

3. Can I make this Orange Glazed Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the glaze and chicken separately, then combine them before serving. Store the glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm both together in a skillet and add a splash of orange juice if needed.

4. What are some good side dishes for this recipe?

This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, couscous, or quinoa. For vegetables, try steamed broccoli, sautéed snap peas, or a crisp Asian cucumber salad. You can even turn it into an orange chicken rice bowl topped with avocado or sesame seeds for a modern twist.

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