Name: Honey Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons water; 1 cup 1 cup breadcrumbs or matzo meal (I used 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs); 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon 1/8 teaspoon pepper; 6 pounds 6 pounds chicken pieces (or 2 fryers, cut up); 1/2 cup 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup 1 cup hot water; 1 cup 1 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger (or 3/4 tsp ground ginger, or to taste); Fresh orange wedges for garnish (optional)

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There’s something incredibly inviting about the aroma of Honey Orange Chicken wafting through the kitchen. I can vividly recall the first time I made this dish; it was a family gathering, and I wanted to impress my relatives with a comforting yet elegant meal. The combination of sweet honey and zesty orange creates a mouthwatering flavor that lingers long after the meal. As I prepped the ingredients, I felt a wave of nostalgia, remembering my grandmother’s similar recipes and the joy they brought to our family dinners. This dish has since become a staple in my home, effortlessly transforming ordinary evenings into something special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, Honey Orange Chicken has always had a place at the table, bringing everyone together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Skillet, Oven, Whisk, Frying Pan, Mixing Bowl, Grater

Why This Honey Orange Chicken Shines

Flavor Harmony

The beauty of Honey Orange Chicken lies in its balance of flavors. The sweetness of the honey beautifully complements the citrusy tang of the orange juice, creating a delicious glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. This flavor combination is not just a treat for your taste buds; it makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this dish is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up a stunning meal. With just a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Versatile Pairings

This recipe offers endless possibilities for pairing. From fluffy rice to a crisp green salad, Honey Orange Chicken can complement a variety of side dishes. I love serving it with steamed vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal that appeals to everyone.

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike adore this dish! The sweet flavor and tender chicken make it a hit with the whole family, ensuring that there are no leftovers. It’s a great way to introduce children to new flavors without overwhelming them.

Impress Your Guests

Hosting a dinner party? Honey Orange Chicken is a sure-fire way to impress your guests. It looks stunning on the plate and tastes even better. Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!

Healthful Ingredients

Many of the ingredients in this recipe are wholesome and nourishing. Fresh orange juice adds vitamins, while the chicken is a great source of protein. This dish allows you to indulge while still feeling good about what you serve.

What’s In This Honey Orange Chicken

When it comes to creating Honey Orange Chicken, the ingredients play a pivotal role in delivering that irresistible flavor. Each ingredient has its purpose, be it enhancing flavor, adding moisture, or creating that beautiful glaze. The key players, such as chicken, orange juice, and honey, come together to create a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with zest and sweetness.

2 large eggs: These are essential for giving the chicken a lovely coating. They help the breadcrumbs adhere, creating a crispy texture.
2 teaspoons water: Used to thin out the eggs, making them easier to mix and coat the chicken.
1 cup breadcrumbs or matzo meal: This creates a crunchy layer that adds texture to the chicken. You can use panko for extra crunch!
1 teaspoon salt: Elevates the flavor of the chicken, enhancing the overall dish.
1/8 teaspoon pepper: Adds just a hint of spice without overpowering the other flavors.
6 pounds chicken pieces: I recommend using a mix of thighs and drumsticks for the best flavor and moisture.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken, contributing to that golden-brown crust.
1 cup hot water: Helps create the sauce that keeps the chicken moist while it roasts.
1 cup orange juice: The star of the show! It lends its bright, refreshing flavor and sweetness.
1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness and creates a beautifully glazed finish on the chicken.
2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger: Introduces a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness of the honey.
Fresh orange wedges for garnish: Optional but adds a beautiful touch of color and freshness when served.

Cooking Instructions for Honey Orange Chicken

Making Honey Orange Chicken is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be on your way to creating an impressive meal that everyone will enjoy. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This temperature is ideal for roasting the chicken evenly while allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors.
In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with 2 teaspoons of water. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs or matzo meal with the salt and pepper. This will create a seasoned coating for your chicken.
Now, take each piece of chicken and dip it first into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Next, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well.
In a heavy skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the skillet, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once browned, remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. It’s perfect if it has a beautiful golden color.
In a bowl, whisk together the hot water, orange juice, honey, and ginger. This mixture will become the delicious sauce that adds flavor and moisture to your dish.
Transfer the browned chicken to a lightly greased roasting pan or casserole dish. Pour the honey-orange mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring every piece gets coated.
Cover the dish with foil and roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Baste the chicken occasionally with the sauce to keep it moist.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F. Allow the chicken to roast uncovered for an additional 10 to 20 minutes. Baste it every few minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve on a platter garnished with fresh orange wedges for an elegant touch. Joan recommends pairing it with rice and a tossed green salad for a complete meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Marination: If time permits, let the chicken marinate in the honey-orange mixture for a few hours or overnight. This intensifies the flavors.
Crispier Coating: For an ultra-crispy crust, consider double-dipping the chicken—first in the egg, then in breadcrumbs, and repeating.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding spices such as paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.

Recipe Notes about Honey Orange Chicken

Here are some valuable tips to make your experience with Honey Orange Chicken even better. These suggestions will help you achieve the best results and enjoy your cooking.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with fluffy white rice or a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness of the dish.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and even coat it with breadcrumbs a day ahead, then just bake before serving.
Garnishing: Don’t skip the fresh orange wedges! They add a bright and fresh finish to the dish.

Perfect Matches for Honey Orange Chicken

When serving Honey Orange Chicken, consider these delightful complements. They pair perfectly to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Steamed Rice: The sweet sauce is perfect for drizzling over fluffy white or jasmine rice.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with seasonal roasted vegetables for a nutritious side.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for lunch gatherings, dinner parties, or holiday feasts.
This chicken shines in any season: It’s just as delightful in summer as it is in winter, making it a versatile choice for any menu.

FAQ

You’ll need some simple ingredients for Honey Orange Chicken. The main components include chicken, honey, and orange juice. Additionally, essential items are eggs, breadcrumbs, and assorted spices like salt and pepper. Fresh ginger adds a lovely touch, and don’t forget the vegetable oil for frying. You might want to garnish your dish with fresh orange wedges for an appealing presentation.

To achieve that perfect crispy coating for your Honey Orange Chicken, consider double-dipping the chicken in the egg and breadcrumb mixtures. This creates an even thicker coating. Also, make sure your frying oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps it fry quickly and develop a nice crust. Lastly, roasting at a higher temperature towards the end can help brown the skin beautifully.

While Honey Orange Chicken traditionally uses chicken, you can certainly experiment with other meats. Try using turkey or even firm fish like salmon. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary; for instance, fish cooks much faster than chicken. Adjust your cooking method accordingly to ensure your chosen meat is cooked through and flavorful.

To store any leftovers of your Honey Orange Chicken, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a safe container for up to two months. Make sure to thaw it properly in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Conclusion

In summary, Honey Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress them with its ease and taste. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again!