Orange-Molasses Glazed Chicken Recipe
Overview:
- Name: Orange-Molasses Glazed Chicken
- Category: Chicken
- Keywords: Oranges, Poultry, Citrus, Fruit, Meat, Oven, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Easy
- Description: This delightful dish boasts a symphony of flavors, blending the bright zestiness of oranges with the rich depth of molasses. The glaze, with its hint of sweetness and touch of smokiness from the red wine vinegar, coats succulent chicken breast halves, resulting in a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Adapted from a RecipeZaar account, this recipe is a testament to the magic that can happen in the kitchen.
Chef’s Notes:
“This simple citrus glaze has a hint of sweetness, but also takes on a bit of smoky flavor from the molasses and red wine vinegar. The chicken turns a beautiful mahogany color, and is so delicious. From Everyday Food’s January 2004 issue.”
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 337.7
- Fat: 1.8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Cholesterol: 68.4mg
- Sodium: 94mg
- Carbohydrates: 53.4g
- Fiber: 3.9g
- Sugar: 38.2g
- Protein: 28.8g
Ingredients:
- 5-6 navel oranges
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), and cover a rimmed baking sheet with foil. |
| 2 | Squeeze the oranges until you have 3 cups of juice. |
| 3 | In a large skillet, combine the orange juice, molasses, and red wine vinegar. Bring to a boil over high heat, skimming foam periodically. |
| 4 | Boil until you have only about a half cup of thick glaze, which typically takes 10-15 minutes. |
| 5 | Set aside half of the glaze in a separate container for serving with the chicken. |
| 6 | Place the chicken breast halves on the prepared baking sheet and season with salt and pepper. |
| 7 | Brush the chicken with the glaze. |
| 8 | Bake the chicken, brushing with glaze two more times during cooking, until juices run clear when pierced, about 35-40 minutes. |
| 9 | Serve the chicken hot with the reserved glaze on the side. |
Tips:
- Be vigilant: Avoid overcooking the glaze to prevent a burnt taste from permeating the dish.
- Get saucy: Don’t skimp on brushing the glaze onto the chicken—it’s where a lot of the flavor comes from.
- Serve it up: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Conclusion:
Orange-Molasses Glazed Chicken is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a special celebration. With its vibrant flavors and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So fire up the oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to be delighted by this mouthwatering creation!
