Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs

This Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe brings together a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. With a delicious glaze made from orange juice, soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar, this dish is full of flavor and is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple to prepare and provides a vibrant burst of citrus with each bite, making it a delightful main dish to serve with coconut rice or a fresh salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs offer a rich and savory flavor profile that’s both tangy and sweet. The orange glaze is the star of the show, adding a refreshing twist to the chicken, while the ginger and red pepper flakes provide a touch of warmth and spice. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, leaving the chicken skin crispy and golden brown. Plus, this recipe is incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It pairs wonderfully with sides like coconut rice, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 chicken thighs

• 1 cup orange juice

• 1 orange zested

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. For a decorative touch, you can line the bottom of the pan with orange slices (optional).

2. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, orange zest, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes.

3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the orange glaze over the chicken thighs.

4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, pour the remaining glaze over the chicken and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown and the skin crisp.

5. Once cooked, remove from the oven and serve with your choice of sides. Garnish with fresh orange slices if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add minced garlic to the glaze while simmering.

• Use chicken breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, you can substitute them in the recipe, though cooking times may vary slightly.

• Spicy version: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a small amount of chili paste for a spicier glaze.

• Citrus variety: Swap out some or all of the orange juice for grapefruit, lime, or lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep the glaze separate from the chicken if you plan to store them together.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, though the skin may lose its crispness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may cook faster than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I make the orange glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before using.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken with the glaze. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How can I thicken the glaze?

If you’d like a thicker glaze, simply continue to simmer it for a few extra minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

What should I serve with this chicken?

This chicken pairs beautifully with coconut rice, steamed veggies, or a crisp green salad.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, you can use freshly grated ginger for a more vibrant flavor. Start with about 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Yes, bottled orange juice will work in a pinch, though fresh juice will give you a more robust, natural flavor.

Conclusion

These Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try for a delicious, hassle-free dinner option!