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Orange Chicken Thighs Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This Orange Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, crispy chicken thighs coated in a vibrant, tangy orange sauce made from fresh orange juice, zest, and a blend of savory and sweet ingredients. Baked to perfection and finished with a luscious, thickened sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of citrus brightness and rich umami flavors, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 Chicken Thighs (skin on)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Orange Sauce

  • 1/2 cup Orange Juice
  • 1 tbsp Orange Zest
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Sugar-Free Sweetener
  • 1 tsp Grated Ginger
  • 1 tsp Minced Garlic
  • 1/4 tsp Xanthan Gum (for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • Green Onion (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken thighs.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during baking.
  3. Season Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs evenly with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
  4. Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with baking paper or in a baking dish, ensuring they are spaced for even cooking.
  5. Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is nicely crispy.
  6. Make Sauce: While the chicken bakes, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), apple cider vinegar, sugar-free sweetener, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  7. Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld flavors.
  8. Thicken Sauce: Gradually sprinkle xanthan gum into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously to prevent clumping. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency.
  9. Finish Sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the butter until fully melted, giving the sauce a rich, glossy finish.
  10. Rest Chicken: Once the chicken is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
  11. Coat Chicken: Toss the baked chicken thighs gently in the orange sauce until well coated, ensuring every piece is flavorful.
  12. Serve: Serve the orange chicken thighs hot, garnished with additional orange zest or chopped green onions for freshness and color.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before baking helps achieve crispy skin.
  • You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
  • Xanthan gum is an effective thickener; add gradually to avoid lumps.
  • The sauce can be adjusted to taste by varying sweetness or acidity levels.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • Serving with steamed rice or vegetables pairs well with this dish.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/orange-chicken-thighs-recipe/