Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our sensational 5-Ingredient Sriracha Chicken recipe. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish bursting with bold flavors and fiery spices. Tender chicken thighs are coated in a crispy flour crust, then glazed with a sweet and tangy Sriracha-orange sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or simply looking to add some excitement to your dinner rotation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in and discover the deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
- Juice of 2 limes
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
- Coat Chicken: Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl. Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour, shaking off any excess, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the Sriracha-orange sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the orange marmalade, Sriracha sauce, and lime juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is smooth and heated through.
- Glaze Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush each thigh generously with the Sriracha-orange sauce.
- Broil Chicken: Turn the oven to broil and return the chicken to the oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Baking vs. Frying: While this recipe calls for baking the chicken thighs, you can also pan-fry them in oil for a crispy exterior. Simply heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha sauce to suit your spice preferences. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it altogether.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the orange marmalade with a sugar-free orange marmalade or use a combination of orange extract and a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol. Adjust the amounts to taste, as some sugar substitutes can be sweeter than others. Serve the chicken with a side of cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad for a low-carb meal.
- Low Carb Option: Follow the keto option above and further reduce the carb content by using a low-carb sweetener instead of orange marmalade. Ensure all other ingredients are low in carbs, and serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a cauliflower mash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used in place of chicken thighs if preferred. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The Sriracha-orange sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before using.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking or frying?
A: Yes, you can grill the chicken thighs for a delicious smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have grill marks.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste preferences by varying the amount of Sriracha sauce used. Start with a smaller amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired level of heat.
Q: Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
A: While fresh lime juice is preferred for optimal flavor, bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute if needed. Just be sure to adjust the amount according to taste, as bottled lime juice may be more concentrated.
With its simple ingredients and explosive flavors, 5-Ingredient Sriracha Chicken is a quick and easy meal that packs a punch. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. So, fire up the oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor every spicy, savory bite of this mouthwatering chicken dish. Get ready to spice up your dinner routine and embark on a culinary adventure that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
