Description

This roasted orange chicken is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. The sweet, tangy orange marinade creates crispy skin and a glossy sauce, all made in one pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs / 900g)
2 large fresh oranges (for zest and juice, about 1/2 cup juice)
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place in a large mixing bowl.
In a bowl, whisk together orange zest, orange juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add thyme sprigs.
Pour marinade over chicken, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange chicken skin side up on a lined baking sheet or roasting pan. Pour extra marinade over the top and tuck thyme sprigs around.
Roast for 25 minutes. Halfway through, spoon some pan juices over the chicken.
Switch oven to broil. Broil chicken for 3-5 minutes until skin is deep golden and crackly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Let chicken rest on the pan for 5 minutes. Serve with pan juices spooned over the top and sprinkle fresh orange zest for color.

Notes

For crispier skin, dry chicken thoroughly before marinating. Marinate overnight for deeper flavor. If chicken browns too quickly, tent with foil. Sauce can be simmered to thicken if desired. Use Tamari for gluten-free. Try variations with different herbs or citrus blends.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with
Calories: 260
Sugar: 10
Sodium: 600
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 13
Fiber: 1
Protein: 18

Keywords: roasted orange chicken, Valentine’s Day dinner, citrus chicken, date night recipe, easy chicken recipe, one pan chicken, special occasion chicken, gluten-free option