Roasting a whole chicken is a comforting and classic dish, but adding a citrus twist like in the image where the chicken is being covered in an orange glaze elevates this meal to something special. This Orange Glazed Roast Chicken has a beautiful combination of savory and sweet flavors, with the orange glaze adding a bright, tangy element that complements the crispy skin and juicy meat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Zesty and Fresh: The orange glaze gives the chicken a citrusy freshness, making it stand out from a typical roast chicken.
- Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat: The glaze helps to create a deliciously crispy skin while keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare but looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal.
Ingredients:
For 4-6 servings, you’ll need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 – 2 kg / 3.5 – 4.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 orange, sliced (for inside the cavity)
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (juice of 1-2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp grated orange zest
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional, for added spice)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Rinse the whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps the skin crisp up as it roasts.
Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out. Place the garlic cloves and a few orange slices inside the cavity of the chicken, along with the thyme. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
2. Make the Orange Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, butter, and orange zest. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the ingredients are well combined. Let the glaze simmer for 3-5 minutesuntil it slightly thickens.
Pro Tip: If you like a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of ground ginger to the glaze. This adds a subtle warmth to the flavor.
3. Apply the Glaze
Place the chicken in a roasting pan (as shown in the image). Pour half of the prepared orange glaze over the chicken, ensuring it covers the skin well. Reserve the remaining glaze for later in the cooking process.
4. Roast the Chicken
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken. Baste the chicken with the remaining orange glaze halfway through cooking to enhance the flavor and crisp up the skin. If the skin starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it loosely with foil.
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F), or when the juices run clear when the thigh is pierced.
5. Let the Chicken Rest
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
6. Serve
Carve the chicken and serve with the roasted orange slices from inside the cavity for an extra burst of citrus. You can also drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the chicken for added flavor.
Cook’s Notes:
- Orange Substitutes: You can use mandarins, tangerines, or even blood oranges for a different citrus flavor.
- Side Suggestions: This orange-glazed chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. You can also serve it with a side of rice to soak up the extra glaze.
- Leftovers: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also use the meat for sandwiches or in salads.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
A: Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice will work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% orange juice without added sugars.
Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes! The glaze can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it slightly before applying it to the chicken.
Q: How do I get extra crispy skin?
A: Pat the chicken dry thoroughly before applying the glaze, and roast it uncovered. If the skin isn’t as crispy as you like towards the end of cooking, you can place the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes (keep a close eye on it to avoid burning).
Final Thoughts
This Orange Glazed Roast Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic roast chicken dinner. With a bright and tangy glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a simple family meal. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor and warmth.
