Description
A delicious and easy Chicken Thighs in Orange Sauce recipe featuring juicy, savory chicken with a tangy, citrusy glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
- Add orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Stir in cornstarch slurry and continue stirring until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Return chicken thighs to skillet, spoon sauce over them.
- Transfer to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Spicy Twist – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
- Citrus Blend – Mix orange juice with a bit of lemon or lime juice.
- Soy-Free Option – Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Slow Cooker Method – Sear chicken first, then cook in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: searing, baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: chicken thighs, orange sauce, citrus chicken, easy dinner, baked chicken