One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs – Easy Family Dinner

Introduction: A Simple & Delicious Chicken Recipe

Looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both incredibly flavorful and unbelievably easy to put together? Then look no further than this One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe. Seriously, it’s a game-changer. We’re talking juicy, tender chicken thighs bathed in a stunningly bright and tangy orange glaze – without you needing to dirty a single pan (except for the small one you’ll use to whisk together the sauce, of course!). This recipe is perfect for busy families, weeknight dinners, or any time you crave a comforting and delicious meal. It’s packed with vibrant flavor, incredibly versatile, and adjusts beautifully to your personal taste preferences. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, swap out the orange zest for lemon zest for a different citrus note, or even toss in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a complete one-pan meal. But honestly, even on its own, this glaze alone makes these chicken thighs something truly special. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite, and it’s so simple that even beginner cooks will feel confident tackling it. The beauty of this dish lies in its efficiency – minimal prep, straightforward cooking, and a gorgeous presentation. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a stress-free culinary experience. Flavorful Chicken is at the heart of this dish, transforming ordinary chicken thighs into something extraordinary. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can achieve with just a few simple ingredients. Orange Glaze Recipe isn’t just a sauce; it’s the key to unlocking this recipe’s full potential. Easy Chicken Recipes don’t get much easier than this. And, best of all, it’s a recipe that celebrates fresh, bright flavors. Delicious Orange Chicken delivers a burst of citrus goodness with every bite. Consider this your go-to solution for a weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and delightfully simple. This recipe truly epitomizes the concept of ‘good food, good times’. One-Pan Meals don’t get much better than this. Simple Chicken Recipes are always a winner, especially when they’re this delicious.

Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need

Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this incredible One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe – it’s surprisingly simple and incredibly flavorful! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a fantastic family dinner. Here’s the complete list:

• Chicken Thighs: 2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on preferred for maximum flavor – bone-in adds a richness to the pan juices that really elevates the whole dish – look for thighs that are about 1.5 – 2 inches thick for even cooking. Consider buying organic chicken thighs for a healthier option.
• Orange Juice: 1/3 cup fresh squeezed orange juice freshly squeezed is absolutely crucial – bottled juice just doesn’t compare – try to get the juice from about 2-3 juicy oranges.
• Maple Syrup: 3 tablespoons maple syrup pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup! – the darker the syrup, the more robust the flavor.
• Orange Zest: 1 teaspoon orange zest the zest adds a bright, intense citrus aroma and flavor – don’t skip it! – using a microplane grater is the best way to achieve a fine zest.
• Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme fresh thyme is also fantastic if you have it – use about 1 tablespoon – thyme provides a wonderfully earthy note.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits
• Salt & Pepper: To taste use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor

Optional additions for enhanced flavor:

• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat add this at the end to control the spice level
• A tablespoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang adds a subtle complexity to the glaze

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Saucepan
• Large Skillet (cast iron is ideal)
• Measuring Cups & Spoons
• Zester (or microplane)
• Tongs (for handling the hot chicken)
• Paper Towels (for cleaning)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Enjoy this amazing recipe – it’s a definite family favorite!

Instructions: Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Let’s get cooking! This one-pan orange glazed chicken thighs recipe is designed for simplicity and deliciousness, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful and impressive meal.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by taking your two pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs out of the refrigerator. Pat them dry with paper towels – this is crucial for getting a good sear. Dry chicken sears much better than wet chicken, which helps build flavor and create a beautiful browned crust.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken – Building Flavor

Place the chicken thighs in a large skillet. Add two tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet over medium-high heat. Let the oil heat up for about a minute, swirling it to coat the bottom of the pan. Now, carefully arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer – avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear the chicken for 5 minutes, undisturbed. You’ll see them develop a nice brown crust. Flip them over and cook for another 10 minutes. Don’t move the chicken around while it’s searing; let it develop a good sear.

Step 3: Create the Orange Glaze – Sweet & Tangy

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add one-third cup of fresh squeezed orange juice – squeezing your own juice is always best for flavor! Add three tablespoons of maple syrup – maple syrup adds a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor, and also contributes to a beautiful glaze. Add one teaspoon of orange zest – orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the maple syrup perfectly. Add one-half teaspoon of thyme – thyme is a classic herb that pairs exceptionally well with citrus and chicken. Stir everything together and bring the glaze to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Return Chicken to the Pan and Glaze

Return the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet with the orange glaze. Use tongs to toss the chicken, ensuring that every piece is fully coated in the glaze. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become incredibly tender. Check the chicken for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and serve immediately. This one-pan orange glazed chicken recipe is fantastic served over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. A simple side salad would also complement the richness of the chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for a pop of color. Enjoy this easy and flavorful meal!

Important Note: Adjust cooking times based on the size of your chicken thighs. A meat thermometer is your best friend when ensuring your chicken is cooked perfectly. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of spice!

Tips & Variations: Customize Your Meal

To elevate this One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe to truly your own, let’s explore some delicious variations and helpful tips. Don’t be afraid to experiment – cooking is about creativity!

Spice It Up: The base recipe is wonderfully flavorful, but adding a little heat is always a good idea. For a spicy kick, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the orange glaze. Alternatively, you could incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth. If you love a truly fiery dish, try adding a finely chopped jalapeño pepper (remove the seeds for less heat) during the simmering stage. spice level

Herbaceous Delights: While thyme is the star here, don’t limit yourself. Fresh rosemary, sage, or even a little oregano would pair beautifully with the orange. Add 1-2 teaspoons of chopped fresh herbs to the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. herb combinations flavor profiles

Sweetness Adjustment: The maple syrup sweetness is a key component, but you can adjust it based on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the maple syrup to 1/2 cup. Conversely, if you like a more intensely sweet glaze, increase it to 3/4 cup. sweetness levels sugar substitutes

Add Some Veggies: This one-pan recipe is fantastic, but incorporating vegetables expands the meal even further. Add chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), zucchini, broccoli florets, or sliced carrots to the skillet during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. vegetable pairings baking times seasonal vegetables

Protein Variations: While chicken thighs are the classic choice, you can certainly adapt this recipe for other proteins. Pork chops or bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts would work equally well, though cooking times may need to be adjusted. protein cooking times

Citrus Twist: Expand the citrus profile by adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the glaze at the end, or even a bit of orange zest for an extra boost of citrus flavor. citrus fruits citrus recipes

Thickening the Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can create a slurry by whisking together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add this slurry to the simmering glaze and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. thickeners sauce thickening

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Side Dish Ideas

To truly elevate your One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs, consider pairing them with a variety of complementary side dishes that cater to different tastes and textures. The bright, citrusy glaze of the chicken pairs beautifully with richer, heartier sides, while lighter options maintain the freshness of the main course. Here’s a curated selection of suggestions, categorized for easy planning:

For a Classic Comfort Meal:

• Roasted Root Vegetables – carrots , parsnips, sweet potatoes roasted with a little olive oil, rosemary, and thyme offer a fantastic textural and flavor contrast. The sweetness of the vegetables balances the glaze, creating a well-rounded meal. Recipe – A simple recipe can be found online.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Potatoes mashed with butter, cream, and a touch of nutmeg are a timeless accompaniment. Preparation – Ensure you use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best consistency.
• Garlic Green Beans – Green Beans sautéed with garlic and a knob of butter are a quick and easy addition. Method – Don’t overcook them; aim for a vibrant green color and a slight crispness.

For a Lighter, Fresher Feel:

• Quinoa Salad – Quinoa tossed with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, fresh mint, and a lemon-lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint. Recipe – Add some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
• Simple Green Salad – A basic salad with mixed greens, a light vinaigrette, and perhaps some sliced strawberries or mandarin oranges provides a welcome burst of freshness. Ingredients – Use a citrus-based vinaigrette to enhance the citrus notes of the chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus – Asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper is a simple and healthy side dish. Instructions – Don’t overcook; the tips should still have a slight bite.

For a More Festive Touch:

• Wild Rice Pilaf – Wild Rice cooked with broth, herbs, and dried cranberries offers a nutty and slightly sweet element. Recipe – This recipe can be found on several food blogs.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – Carrots glazed with honey and a touch of orange juice complements the glaze on the chicken. Recipe – This is a very easy and tasty side.

No matter your choice, consider using herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to tie all the flavors together. Ultimately, the perfect side dishes for One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs are those that you and your family enjoy! Experiment and find what you like best!

Nutrition Information: Calorie Breakdown

Let’s dive into the nutritional details of this incredibly delicious One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe! This dish is packed with flavor and surprisingly, offers a balanced nutritional profile, making it a guilt-free addition to your family’s meal plan. We’ve calculated the approximate calorie count per serving, based on the ingredients and quantities used. Please note that these are estimates and can vary slightly depending on the specific brands and variations you use.

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving – based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 258 kcal
• Total Fat: 11 grams – This includes 2 grams of saturated fat. The healthy fats primarily come from the olive oil used in the recipe, contributing to satiety and supporting heart health. Incorporating olive oil into your diet is a fantastic way to boost your monounsaturated fat intake, which is known for its beneficial effects on cholesterol levels. healthy fats
• Saturated Fat: 2 grams – It’s important to moderate saturated fat intake as part of a healthy diet. This recipe’s relatively low saturated fat content helps maintain a balanced macronutrient ratio. saturated fat guidelines
• Trans Fat: 0.03 grams – Excellent! This recipe is free of trans fats, which are detrimental to health.
• Cholesterol: 144 mg – The chicken itself contributes to the cholesterol content, but the overall balance of the meal is still quite favorable.
• Sodium: 524 mg – The sodium content is influenced primarily by the salt added during seasoning. Be mindful of your individual sodium needs and consider using reduced-sodium salt or herbs and spices for added flavor. sodium guidelines
• Carbohydrates: 9 grams – These carbohydrates primarily come from the natural sugars found in the orange juice and maple syrup. They provide a quick source of energy for your body. carbohydrate breakdown
• Fiber: 0.4 grams – The fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer and contributes to digestive health. Increasing your fiber intake is a cornerstone of a healthy diet. fiber benefits
• Sugar: 7 grams – The sweetness is derived from the orange juice and maple syrup. This contributes to the meal’s flavor profile, but it’s worth noting the sugar content. sugar reduction tips
• Protein: 29 grams – Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. This recipe provides a substantial amount of protein per serving. protein requirements

Important Note: This nutritional information is an estimate. To obtain a more precise calculation, it’s recommended to use a nutrition tracking app and enter the exact quantities of each ingredient used in your recipe. Enjoy this delicious and healthy One-Pan Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs – a perfect addition to a balanced diet! nutrition tracking apps

,,,,,,,,