Name: Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5 to 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tbsp orange zest; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for roasting); Orange slices (optional, for garnish)

Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken Recipe

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Sweet and savory roasted orange chicken is a flavorful dish made with juicy, oven-roasted chicken coated in a sticky citrus glaze. I love making it when I want something bold, balanced, and incredibly aromatic.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the sweet orange juice caramelizes with the savory soy sauce and garlic to form a glossy, tangy glaze. It gives the chicken a beautiful golden color and bold flavor. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, but elegant enough to serve guests. Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
Fresh orange juice
Orange zest
Soy sauce
Honey or brown sugar
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (freshly grated, optional)
Olive oil or sesame oil
Salt and black pepper
Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for roasting)
Orange slices (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or sheet.
I pat the chicken dry and season it with salt and pepper.
In a small saucepan, I combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. I simmer it for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
I place the chicken in the baking dish and brush it generously with the orange glaze.
I roast the chicken for 40–45 minutes, basting with more glaze every 15 minutes, until the skin is golden and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
I broil for the last 2–3 minutes if I want extra caramelization.
I garnish with fresh herbs and orange slices before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. Prep time is 15 minutes, and cook time is 40–45 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of rice vinegar or chili flakes to the glaze for tang and heat.
Chicken breasts work too, though I reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid drying them out.
I’ve also roasted it with carrots, onions, or sweet potatoes in the same pan.
For a holiday twist, I use blood oranges and a pinch of clove.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover and bake at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. The glaze may thicken, so I sometimes add a splash of water or juice when reheating. Sweet and Savory Roasted Orange Chicken Recipe

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

I prefer fresh for the best flavor, but I’ve used bottled in a pinch. I make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.

What cut of chicken works best?

Bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks are my favorite—they stay juicy and the skin crisps up beautifully.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, I make it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. I warm it slightly before using so it’s easier to brush on.

Is this recipe very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by the soy sauce and garlic. I adjust the honey to taste if I want it less sweet.

Can I freeze this?

Yes, I freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Sweet and savory roasted orange chicken is one of my favorite dishes when I want something simple but packed with flavor. The citrus glaze adds brightness and depth, and the chicken always comes out tender and juicy. It’s a guaranteed hit every time I make it.