Name: Date Glazed Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces large chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on) (I prefer leg/thigh quarters); 0.5 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 0.25 cup hot sauce; 0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow); 2 teaspoons orange zest; to taste Salt and black pepper; 1 bunch fresh thyme (divided); 3 large navel oranges (divided); 0.67 cup date honey syrup

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The Date Glazed Orange Chicken is one of those dishes that takes me back to family gatherings, where laughter and the aroma of zesty orange wafting through the kitchen filled the air. I remember the excitement building up as I marinated the chicken, preparing it for a flavorful transformation. Each bite was not just about the taste; it was about the memories of sharing meals with loved ones around the dinner table. The combination of the sweet and tangy orange glaze with tender chicken is simply irresistible.

My journey with this dish began when I decided to experiment with flavors that remind me of sunny days. The vibrant color of the orange sauce not only enhances the visual appeal but also embodies the essence of joy and warmth. Whenever I make the Date Glazed Orange Chicken, I feel a burst of happiness as it fills my home with its delightful scent. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and I often find myself making it for special occasions or just a cozy dinner at home.

Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. The tender, juicy chicken paired with a luscious orange glaze creates a perfect harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. I can’t help but think about the smiles it brings to those I serve it to. With each bite, my friends and family are reminded of the love and care that go into creating this dish. It’s not just food; it’s a heartfelt experience that I cherish.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven, Frying Pan

Why This Date Glazed Orange Chicken Hits Different

It’s All About the Flavors

What makes the Date Glazed Orange Chicken stand out is the bold combination of flavors. The marinade, featuring fresh orange juice and hot sauce, creates a delightful contrast that elevates the chicken. The sweetness of date honey adds a rich depth, making each bite a flavorful journey.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple family meal, the Date Glazed Orange Chicken fits the bill. Its eye-catching presentation and mouthwatering taste leave a lasting impression on your guests.

A Healthy Option

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a healthier choice. Using fresh ingredients like oranges and olive oil ensures that you’re serving up something nourishing. The chicken provides essential protein, making it a balanced meal that satisfies without compromising on flavor.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

We all love a recipe that doesn’t take hours to make! The Date Glazed Orange Chicken can be marinated ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. Just pop it in the oven, and you’re ready to serve a fantastic meal.

Impressive Presentation

Nothing says gourmet like a beautifully glazed chicken. The shiny, caramelized exterior of the chicken, paired with orange slices and fresh thyme, creates a stunning centerpiece for your dining table.

Perfectly Balanced Sweetness

The balance of sweet and savory in this dish is simply divine. The orange glaze is not overly sweet, thanks to the acidity of the citrus, making it a well-rounded dish that appeals to a variety of palates.

What Goes Into Date Glazed Orange Chicken

When it comes to the Date Glazed Orange Chicken, the ingredients play a vital role in creating that unforgettable flavor profile. Each component works in harmony to enhance the dish’s overall taste. The key players here are fresh oranges, chicken, and a delightful marinade that brings everything together.

6 large chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on): The heart of this dish, providing rich flavor and moisture.
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken.
1/4 cup hot sauce: Infuses a spicy kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the glaze.
1/2 cup + 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Provides healthy fats and enhances the marinade’s flavor.
3 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow): Offers a tangy depth that rounds out the marinade.
2 teaspoons orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor, making the dish vibrant and aromatic.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the overall taste.
1 bunch fresh thyme (divided): Adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
3 large navel oranges (divided): Used for garnish and additional flavor, providing a fresh burst.
2/3 cup date honey syrup: This is the star ingredient that glazes the chicken, adding a natural sweetness.

Recipe Steps for Date Glazed Orange Chicken

Getting ready to whip up the Date Glazed Orange Chicken is an exciting process! You’ll find that each step is designed to build flavor and ensure a tender, delicious outcome. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this mouthwatering dish.

If using chicken leg quarters, I generally like to remove the “knuckle” end of the drumstick bone before cooking. It makes for a more elegant presentation on the dinner table. To do this, use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully slice around the bottom knuckle of the bone, cutting through the skin and tendons. Then, grasp the cartilage area with a towel and pull strongly, twisting to remove it, and discard. FYI, this may take some practice and a bit of elbow grease. Be very careful with the knife when you are making the slice around the bone—you don’t want to slip!
Whisk together orange juice, hot sauce, 3 tablespoons olive oil, mustard, orange zest, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper to form a marinade. This combination is the magic sauce that will bring the chicken to life!
Place the chicken pieces into a plastic zipper bag or into a ceramic or glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Add 6-8 sprigs of thyme into the bag or dish. Seal the bag (if using) or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your oven to 475 degrees F. This high temperature will help achieve that beautiful crispy skin.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Heat 1/2 cup olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium until hot but not smoking. Add the chicken pieces skin side down, three pieces at a time, and let them cook for 5 to 10 minutes until the skin is nicely browned. Remove from skillet and repeat with the remaining pieces. Remove the skillet from heat.
Lightly grease a roasting pan or dish. Slice two of the large navel oranges into rounds and lay them in a single layer, covering the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle some thyme sprigs into the bottom of the roasting pan as well (reserve some for the final platter/garnish).
Place the chicken back into the pan, skin side up. Brush each piece generously with date honey. This glaze will give your chicken that gorgeous shine and sweet flavor!
Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes, basting the chicken every 15 minutes with more date honey. This makes sure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
After 45 minutes, the chicken should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F (I usually cook it to 170). If not, re-cover and continue to cook until it reaches temperature.
Uncover the chicken. Baste once more with any remaining date honey, then increase the heat to 500 degrees F and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the date glaze is bubbly and shiny. Keep a close eye to make sure the glaze doesn’t burn—this contains a lot of natural sugar and will blacken if you’re not careful.
Slice up the remaining orange. Serve each piece of chicken garnished with a fresh orange slice and fresh thyme sprigs. This not only adds a beautiful touch but also enhances the flavor!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least three hours or overnight enhances the flavor significantly. The longer it sits, the more the flavors penetrate.
Watch the Glaze: Keep an eye on the glaze during the final cooking phase to prevent burning. The sugars in the date honey can caramelize quickly.
Cooking Temperature: The initial high temperature helps achieve crispy skin, while the lower temperature ensures the chicken cooks through evenly.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh oranges and herbs will elevate the dish’s flavor, making it taste much brighter and zestier.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Making the Date Glazed Orange Chicken is a delightful experience, and having a few tips can take it to the next level. Here are some insights to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Pairing: This chicken pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The zesty flavors complement light sides perfectly!
Variations: Experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lemons or limes, in the marinade for a different flavor profile.
Honey Alternative: If you can’t find date honey syrup, maple syrup or agave nectar can be a sweet alternative, though flavors may vary slightly.
Herb Substitutes: Fresh rosemary or oregano can be used in place of thyme for a different herbal note.

Accompaniments for Date Glazed Orange Chicken

Serving the Date Glazed Orange Chicken can be just as exciting as preparing it! Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your dish:

Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf can soak up the delicious orange sauce, making it a perfect side.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color, texture, and nutrients to your meal.
Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad with diced veggies can be a great alternative for something light and nutritious.
Occasions: This dish is wonderful for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
Seasonal Pairings: During the warmer months, serving it with grilled asparagus or avocado salad enhances the freshness.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before, which will help it absorb all those delicious flavors. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the recipe as instructed. This is a great way to save time on busy days while still serving a fantastic meal.

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with fluffy rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. You could also pair it with seasonal roasted vegetables for a nutritious meal. Each of these sides complements the zesty orange flavors wonderfully.

To ensure your chicken is cooked through, always check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F. If you prefer, you can cook it to 170 for added juiciness. Basting during cooking also helps keep it moist and flavorful.

While date honey syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth to the dish, you can substitute it with other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar. The flavor may change slightly, but the recipe will still be delicious. Just keep in mind that each sweetener has its own distinct taste.

Conclusion

The Date Glazed Orange Chicken is truly a dish that brings joy to any table. Its combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes it a standout choice for dinners and special occasions alike. Don’t hesitate to try making it yourself; it’s simpler than it looks and incredibly rewarding. Gather your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret it!