Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, Complex Flavors: The spices and orange-honey glaze give the chicken a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and warmth.
Juicy and Tender: Marinating the chicken ensures it stays moist and full of flavor.
Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, this dish comes together easily for an impressive result.
Visually Stunning: The golden glaze and fresh orange slices make this dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

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

1.2kg chicken thigh fillets
80ml (1/3 cup) fresh orange juice
80ml (1/3 cup) honey
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 orange, thinly sliced
Finely chopped fresh chives, to serve
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thigh fillets in an ovenproof dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Pour the mixture over the chicken and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper, then cover with plastic wrap. Place in the fridge to marinate for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse the chicken.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Assemble and Roast:
- Remove the chicken from the fridge and arrange the orange slices over the top.
- Place the dish in the oven and roast for 45 minutes, basting the chicken with the pan juices every 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and keep the chicken moist.
Serve:
- Once the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, transfer it to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh chives and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating time)
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

Spice Blend Adjustments: Add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra heat or smokiness.
Citrus Twist: Substitute orange juice with mandarin or blood orange juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
Vegetable Additions: Add root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal.
Herbaceous Finish: Top with fresh cilantro or parsley instead of chives for a different herbaceous note.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well. Adjust the cooking time to 50-55 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the chicken immediately.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, making it convenient for meal prep.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster. Check for doneness after 35-40 minutes to prevent drying out.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve Spiced Orange Roast Chicken with steamed rice, couscous, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Yes, vegetables like zucchini, onions, or bell peppers can be added to the dish to roast alongside the chicken.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh chives?

Yes, dried chives or parsley can be sprinkled over the chicken, though fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Basting the chicken with pan juices throughout the cooking process ensures it stays moist and flavorful.

Conclusion

Spiced Orange Roast Chicken is an irresistible combination of tender, juicy chicken and a sweet, aromatic glaze. With its warm spices and citrusy brightness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s sure to impress.

Spiced Orange Roast Chicken

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Spiced Orange Roast Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken marinated in fresh orange juice, honey, and warm spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:
- Place chicken thigh fillets in an ovenproof dish.
- In a small bowl, mix orange juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Pour over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for 1 hour.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Assemble and Roast:
- Remove chicken from the fridge and arrange orange slices over the top.
- Roast for 45 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with pan juices to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Serve:
- Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh chives and serve immediately.

Notes

Add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for extra heat or smokiness.
Substitute orange juice with mandarin or blood orange juice for a unique flavor twist.
Include vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes in the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (+1 hour marinating)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired