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Orange Chicken Thighs

Orange Chicken Thighs

Ava-chefAVA
Try these juicy, flavorful Orange Chicken Thighs for a quick, delicious meal. Sweet and savory with a crispy finish perfect for any dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinate 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, asian
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 to 6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
  • 1/2 cup of Orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon of Orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons of Honey
  • 3 tablespoons of Soy sauce
  • 3 cloves of Garlic
  • 1 teaspoon of Ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of Cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon of Sesame oil

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. This mixture will form your flavorful marinade. For an added depth of flavor, stir in sesame oil to give it a little richness.
  • Marinate the chicken: Place your chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinate them for longer (even overnight works wonders for extra flavor). The longer the chicken soaks in that citrusy marinade, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
  • Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s nice and hot, add your chicken thighs, skin-side down if you're using bone-in thighs. Let them sear for about 5-6 minutes or until the skin turns golden and crispy. Flip the chicken over and cook for another 5-6 minutes, until fully cooked. For boneless thighs, the cooking time will be quicker, so make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
  • Prepare the glaze: While the chicken is cooking, take the leftover marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. For a thicker glaze, mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch and stir frequently. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens into a glossy, sticky sauce.
  • Coat the chicken: Once the chicken is done cooking, drizzle the thickened glaze over the thighs, making sure every piece is generously coated. Let it simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes so the sauce can soak into the chicken, creating that irresistible sticky finish.
  • Serve and enjoy: Your Orange Chicken Thighs are ready to be served! For the best experience, pair them with a side of steamed jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. And don't forget to pour any extra glaze over the chicken for that extra burst of flavor.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)
  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 660mg
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Protein: 28g