Craving a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory? This crispy orange chicken recipe is sure to hit the spot. It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering a refreshing citrus tang with a satisfying crunch.
Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner, this dish will soon become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Evenly sprinkle half of this spice mix over one side of the chicken.
- Flip the chicken pieces and sprinkle the remaining spices on the other side. Gently rub the spices into the chicken to ensure an even coating.
- For grill pan cooking, heat a nonstick grill pan over medium heat and add olive oil. Cook half of the chicken pieces for 5 minutes without moving them, then flip and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until fully cooked. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- For broiling, preheat your oven to broil and position a rack 6 inches from the top. Arrange the chicken on a wire rack placed over a baking tray, broil for 6 minutes, then turn the chicken and broil for another 5 to 6 minutes.
- Allow the cooked chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika or smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1800 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 260g | Fat: 70g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 1290mg | Sodium: 3550mg | Potassium: 3570mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 2350IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 10mg
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook a bit quicker depending on their thickness.
- How should I store the cooked chicken?
- Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to three months.
- What is the cooking time for this chicken recipe?
- The chicken is typically ready in 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the cooking method you choose.
- Can I prepare this chicken recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prep the chicken on a Sunday night and have it ready for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.
- Which type of paprika should I use, regular or smoked?
- Both types of paprika work well, but smoked paprika will give the chicken a more distinct smoky flavor. If you prefer a more basic taste, regular paprika is a good choice.
Tips
- Prep in Advance: Consider preparing the chicken on a Sunday night so you have cooked chicken ready for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.
- Storage Tips: Store your cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
- Adjust the Recipe Size: If cooking for a smaller group, simply reduce the amount of chicken and seasoning to suit your needs.
- Choose Your Paprika Wisely: For a more everyday flavor, use regular paprika, but opt for smoked paprika if you want a smokier taste.
Equipment
- Nonstick grill pan
- Wire rack
- Large baking tray
