Introduction
Get ready to brighten up dinner with this juicy, fragrant, Roasted Orange Chicken! Packed with citrus zest, fresh herbs, and garlic, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s a stunning main dish that feels gourmet, yet it’s easy enough for a weeknight.
Whether you’re hosting guests or just feeding your family, this golden-roasted chicken will become a new favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe
- 🍊 Fresh citrus punch from orange juice and zest
- 🍗 Crispy skin & juicy meat thanks to roasting with the bone-in
- 🌿 Herby, garlicky aroma that perfumes the whole kitchen
- 🧡 Perfect make-ahead meal—just marinate and bake
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 oranges, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Orange slices, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil for easier cleanup.
2️⃣ Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together:
- Orange juice + zest
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Rosemary
- Salt + black pepper
3️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken thighs to a dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
4️⃣ Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken on the baking sheet, skin-side up. Pour any extra marinade over the top. Roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crispy.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh orange slices and an optional sprinkle of chopped herbs.
Pro Tips for Success
- Marinate longer for a deeper citrus and herb infusion—overnight works best.
- Don’t skip the skin: it crisps beautifully and locks in moisture.
- Baste halfway through roasting with juices from the pan for an extra glossy finish.
- Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet-savory touch.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Roasted Orange Chicken with these delicious sides and sips from the ChefManiac collection:
- 🫐 This Blueberry Lemonade – a fruity drink that balances the citrus chicken
- 🦃 These Easy Turkey Wings – make it a protein-packed feast
- 🌮 Sheet Pan Quesadillas – perfect for feeding a crowd alongside
- 🍌 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – a sweet and cozy dessert pairing
- 🍦 Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake – creamy and cold to contrast the warm roast
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve crispness.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Blueberry Lemonade
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
- This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- These Easy Turkey Wings
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Orange Chicken is everything you want from a citrus-inspired dinner—juicy, golden, flavorful, and effortless. Add it to your weeknight rotation or serve it with sides for an elegant meal.
🍽️ Tried it? Leave a comment below, tag @ChefManiac on social, and share your twist! Don’t forget to rate this recipe and subscribe for more citrus-kissed creations.
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