Orange-Glazed Roasted Chicken: A Citrus Lover’s Delight 🍊🍗
Roasted chicken is a timeless classic, and when paired with the vibrant zest of Florida oranges, it becomes a dish worthy of any special occasion.
Orange-glazed roasted chicken is a delicious balance of savory and sweet, with a glossy, caramelized glaze that adds a burst of citrusy brightness. Whether it’s a holiday meal, a Sunday dinner, or simply a way to elevate your weeknight dining, this recipe is sure to impress.
A Brief History of Citrus in Cooking
Citrus has been used in cooking for centuries, with its origins traced back to Southeast Asia. By the time orange trees reached Florida in the 1500s, they quickly became an agricultural cornerstone. Today, Florida is one of the leading producers of oranges in the world, renowned for its juicy, sweet, and flavorful varieties.
In culinary traditions, oranges are celebrated for their versatility. Their natural acidity tenderizes meats, while their sweetness enhances marinades, glazes, and sauces. Orange-glazed roasted chicken is a contemporary twist that celebrates these citrusy qualities while offering a comforting and elegant meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Flavorful: The orange glaze adds a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, complementing the savory roasted chicken.
- Elegant Presentation: The glossy finish and aromatic garnishes make this dish a showstopper on any table.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with roasted vegetables, a citrusy salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest deliver the best flavor for the glaze.
- Don’t Skip the Basting: Regular basting ensures the glaze caramelizes beautifully while keeping the chicken moist.
- Cook to Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness for safe and juicy results.
Orange-glazed roasted chicken is a flavorful fusion of tradition and tropical flair, embodying Florida’s love for citrus in every bite. This dish is easy to prepare yet sophisticated enough for any occasion. With its tender meat and tangy-sweet glaze, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Orange-Glazed Roasted Chicken: A Citrus Lover’s Delight 🍊🍗
Course: Main, entreeCuisine: American, latinDifficulty: Medium4
servings45
minutes1
hour30
minutes410
kcalIngredients
- For the Chicken:
1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 oranges, sliced
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- For the Orange Glaze:
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and rub it with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper, including the cavity. - Stuff the cavity with orange slices, onion quarters, garlic, and rosemary. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
- Make the Glaze In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, and smoked paprika.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the glaze until slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Roast the Chicken Roast the chicken uncovered in the oven. Baste with the glaze every 15-20 minutes to build a flavorful crust.
- Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken (thigh) reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
- Drizzle additional glaze over the carved chicken and garnish with fresh orange slices or rosemary sprigs.
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