Chicken Breast with Orange Glaze
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A delightful combination of succulent chicken breast and a zesty orange glaze that will elevate your dinner experience.
This Chicken Breast with Orange Glaze is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The citrusy glaze adds a refreshing twist that complements the juicy chicken beautifully.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tangy orange flavor that brightens up the dish
- Moist and tender chicken that is easy to prepare
- Quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
A Flavorful Experience
This Chicken Breast with Orange Glaze recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings together the sweetness of honey and the zest of fresh oranges. The vibrant flavors awaken your palate, making it a standout choice for any dinner occasion. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the succulent chicken and the tangy glaze, ensuring that every guest at your table will be impressed.
Pairing this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or fluffy rice enhances the meal's appeal, making it visually stunning as well as delicious. The bright orange hue of the glaze adds a pop of color, making it a feast for the eyes as well. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the harmony of sweet and savory in their meals.
Simple and Quick Preparation
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a gourmet dish that feels special. The chicken breasts cook quickly, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
By utilizing fresh orange juice and zest, you make the glaze from scratch, ensuring a burst of natural flavor that pre-made sauces simply can't match. This approach not only enhances the taste but also allows you to control the sweetness and tanginess to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a family meal, this Chicken Breast with Orange Glaze is a versatile dish that fits any scenario. Its elegant presentation and delightful flavors are sure to impress your guests, making it a go-to recipe for entertaining.
Additionally, the dish can be easily doubled or halved, giving you the flexibility to adjust serving sizes according to your needs. This adaptability ensures that you can share this delightful meal with friends and family, creating memorable experiences around the dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orange Glaze
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- Zest of 1 orange
Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Orange Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for a minute, then serve the chicken with the glaze drizzled on top.
Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It is low in fat and high in essential nutrients, which can assist in muscle building and repair. Coupled with the vitamins and antioxidants found in oranges, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your overall health.
Moreover, the inclusion of honey adds natural sweetness without refined sugars, making it a healthier option for dessert lovers. The glaze's vibrant ingredients contribute to a balanced meal that can easily be enjoyed guilt-free.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to preserving their flavor and texture. Place the chicken and orange glaze in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken with the glaze. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy this delicious meal anytime you crave it, without compromising on quality.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this dish alongside a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette, which complements the orange glaze beautifully. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or quinoa can provide a hearty side that balances the meal.
For an added touch of sophistication, garnish the chicken with fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but adds an aromatic element that ties the dish together, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will add more moisture to the dish.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and cook the chicken ahead of time; just reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken with the glaze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Chicken Breast with Orange Glaze
A delightful combination of succulent chicken breast and a zesty orange glaze that will elevate your dinner experience.
Created by: Madeline Archer
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Orange Glaze
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- Zest of 1 orange
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the glaze thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for a minute, then serve the chicken with the glaze drizzled on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 30g