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Orange Glazed Roast Chicken: A Citrus Twist on a Classic Dish
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6
There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly roasted chicken. The crispy skin, juicy meat, and savory aroma make it a favorite for many households. But what if you could elevate this classic dish with a burst of citrusy sweetness? Introducing the Orange Glazed Roast Chicken—a delightful fusion of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.
The orange glaze not only imparts a beautiful golden-brown color to the skin but also infuses the meat with a zesty freshness. Paired with hints of garlic and thyme, this roast chicken becomes a mouthwatering centerpiece for any meal. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
– 1 whole chicken (1.5–2 kg)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 garlic cloves, smashed
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or a few fresh thyme sprigs
– 1 orange, sliced
For the Orange Glaze
– ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
– ¼ cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
– Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures the oven is hot enough to create a crispy skin.
– Clean the Chicken: Rinse the whole chicken under cold running water and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry skin helps achieve that desirable crispy texture.
– Season the Chicken: Rub the entire chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, making sure to coat all surfaces. Season generously with salt and pepper, including the cavity.
– Stuff the Cavity: Place the smashed garlic cloves, orange slices, and thyme inside the cavity of the chicken. This will infuse the meat with aromatic flavors from the inside out.
– Tie the Legs (Optional): For even cooking and a neat appearance, you can tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine.
2. Make the Orange Glaze
– Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the following:
– ½ cup fresh orange juice
– ¼ cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger (if using)
– Heat the Glaze: Stir the mixture continuously until the butter has melted and all ingredients are well combined.
– Simmer: Allow the glaze to simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to thicken the glaze slightly and meld the flavors together.
– Set Aside: Remove the saucepan from heat and set the glaze aside.
3. Apply the Glaze and Roast
– Place in Roasting Pan: Place the seasoned chicken into a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet, breast side up.
– First Glaze Application: Pour half of the orange glaze over the chicken, using a brush or spoon to ensure it’s evenly coated.
– Roast the Chicken: Put the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for 60–90 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken.
– Baste Midway: About halfway through the cooking time (around 30–45 minutes), baste the chicken with the remaining glaze. This enhances the flavor and promotes a deeper golden color.
– Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F), or when the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced.
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