Orange Glazed Chicken Breasts

Introduction

Bright, tangy, and bursting with flavor, this orange glazed chicken breasts recipe offers a refreshing twist on a classic dinner. The sweet depth of honey combined with fresh orange juice and umami-rich soy sauce creates a caramelized glaze that clings beautifully to tender, golden-seared chicken. If you’re looking for a citrus-forward dish that’s as elegant as it is simple, this orange glazed chicken recipe is your answer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare and incredibly flavorful, this dish requires only a few pantry staples. The glaze balances sweetness and saltiness, enhanced with garlic for depth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday meal prep, or casual dinners with guests. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free when using tamari.

Recipe Origins

Inspired by Asian-style cuisine, this recipe takes cues from Chinese orange chicken while offering a lighter, pan-seared version. It combines the best of East-meets-West cooking: bold flavor, minimal effort, and healthy ingredients. Think of it as an easy upgrade to your weekday chicken routine with a sunny island flair.

Ingredients

8 chicken breasts
2 oranges
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 garlic clove
1 tablespoon olive oil
pinch of salt
pinch of black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
50 ml water

Instructions

1- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2- Sear each chicken breast for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add the juice and zest of both oranges, honey, and soy sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
4- Strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove the garlic and achieve a smooth texture.
5- In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water. Stir into the sauce and simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy and thickened.
6- Return the chicken breasts to the pan, coating them thoroughly in the orange glaze.
7- Serve hot, garnished with fresh orange slices if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 365
Protein: 40 g
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Sugar: 13 g
Sodium: 580 mg

Quick Facts

Preparation Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: 20 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to restore the sauce’s smooth consistency. Not recommended for freezing as the glaze may become watery upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with jasmine rice, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes. For a lighter side, try steamed green beans or a cucumber salad. It also works well served over quinoa or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired plate.

Common Mistakes

Skipping the sear: This step creates a flavorful crust and seals in juices.
Using bottled orange juice: Freshly squeezed juice delivers a brighter, more natural flavor.
Omitting cornstarch: It gives the glaze its luscious, silky finish.
Overcooking the chicken: Monitor internal temperature to keep the meat tender.

Recipe Variations

Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil for heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly as thighs take longer to cook through.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. Make the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I double the glaze for leftovers?
Absolutely. It’s delicious over rice, veggies, or even salmon and reheats beautifully.