“Honey-Orange Skillet Chicken” is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the citrusy zest of orange, creating a perfectly balanced glaze for the chicken. The recipe starts with selecting high-quality chicken pieces, typically thighs or breasts, which are known for their tenderness and ability to absorb flavors well.
The chicken is seasoned with salt and pepper, and then seared in a hot skillet to achieve a beautifully golden-brown exterior. This step not only enhances the texture of the chicken but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Once the chicken is nicely browned, it’s set aside, and the focus shifts to creating the luscious honey-orange glaze.
In the same skillet, freshly squeezed orange juice is poured, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process, known as deglazing, ensures that all the savory flavors are incorporated into the sauce. To the orange juice, honey is added, which brings a natural sweetness and a sticky, glossy texture to the glaze. The combination of orange and honey not only offers a delightful sweetness but also a subtle tartness and brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Garlic, and sometimes ginger, are added to the glaze for an aromatic depth, while a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce provides a savory umami element that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. The blend of these ingredients results in a complex and multi-layered sauce.
The chicken is then returned to the skillet, nestling it into the bubbling glaze. The dish is typically finished in the oven, where the chicken cooks through, soaking up the flavors of the honey-orange mixture. The high heat of the oven also helps to reduce the sauce, thickening it into a rich, syrupy consistency that clings to the chicken.
As a final touch, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme is added, along with a zest of orange for an extra pop of citrus flavor. This not only adds a fresh contrast to the dish but also enhances its visual appeal.
Served straight from the skillet, Honey-Orange Skillet Chicken is often accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad. The dish is praised for its harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, the delightful contrast between the tender, juicy chicken and the sticky, flavorful glaze, and the ease with which it can be prepared, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and delicious dinner.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup orange juice
½ cup cider vinegar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup honey
2 Tablespoons chili powder
1 Tablespoon ground coriander
1 Tablespoon ground cumin
2 pounds chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, chili powder, coriander, and cumin. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer for 35-45 minutes or until sauce has reduced to one cup.
In a medium saucepan add olive oil and heat to medium high heat. Salt and Pepper the chicken thighs and cook until 165 degrees in center and no longer pink. Drizzle the glaze on top and allow to simmer for 1-2 minutes making sure the chicken is coated well in the glaze. Serve immediately.
