Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's bursting with flavor and sure to impress! Our Sticky Orange Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory that will transport you straight to the heart of Chinese cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to deliver succulent chicken thighs coated in a luscious orange glaze that’s simply irresistible. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure—read on to discover how to make this unforgettable dish!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and better seasoning absorption. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with additional salt and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade for later basting.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until skin becomes golden and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, basting with reserved marinade every 5 minutes.
- Check internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Reduce remaining marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat until thickened and syrupy, then drizzle over chicken before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting them sit for up to 4 hours will enhance the flavor even more.
- Crispy Skin is Key: Patting the chicken thighs dry before seasoning is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy skin. The drier the skin, the better the sear!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will guarantee juicy, tender meat every time.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: Don’t forget to baste the chicken with the reserved marinade while it bakes! This will keep the chicken moist and add layers of flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your dish by garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. It adds a pop of color and a hint of crunch that makes the dish even more appealing.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Sticky Orange Chicken Thighs with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
