Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze

Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze Recipe - Flavorful Dinner Idea

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze is a delightful dish that combines the succulence of chicken with the tartness of Bramley apples, all brought together with a sweet and citrusy orange glaze. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a meal that delivers a burst of flavors, blending sweet, sour, and savory notes. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is not only delicious but also presents beautifully on the table.

History

The origins of combining poultry with fruit can be traced back to ancient cuisines, where cooks would often incorporate available seasonal ingredients to create balanced and nutritious meals. The specific pairing of chicken with apples and an orange glaze, however, is a more modern culinary innovation. It reflects a contemporary appreciation for mixing fruits with meats to achieve a complex flavor profile. The use of Bramley apples, a variety known for its sharpness and ability to retain structure when cooked, makes this dish uniquely satisfying.

Ingredients

4 medium corn fed, free range chicken breasts, skin removed
2 tsp black peppercorns
0.5 tsp ground allspice
1 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
175 ml orange juice
2 small bramley apples, peeled, cored and cut into small pieces
3 tsp honey
2 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 220°C (Gas Mark 7).
Using a rolling pin, crush the black peppercorns. Place them along with the spices, oregano, and garlic into a large bowl.
Add the orange juice, olive oil, and honey to the bowl. Mix well.
Add the chicken to the bowl and coat it in the marinade. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Drain the chicken and transfer it to a baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and juicy but not overcooked, dry, or stringy.
Meanwhile, pour the marinade into a saucepan and cook over gentle heat until it thickens and becomes syrupy. Add the apples towards the end and cook them until they are cooked through but not completely broken up.
Cut each chicken breast into 3 pieces and drizzle the reduced glaze over them.
Serve with plain boiled rice or mashed potatoes, with a few spring onions stirred through at the last moment.

Variations

For those looking to experiment, this recipe is versatile. Try using pears instead of apples for a slightly sweeter taste, or add a splash of brandy to the glaze for a deeper flavor. For a spicier kick, a pinch of chili flakes can be added to the marinade.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender, avoid overcooking by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer - it should reach 165°F (74°C). Marinating the chicken for longer than 10 minutes, if time allows, will enhance the flavors. For a thicker glaze, allow the marinade to reduce over low heat until it reaches the desired consistency. Adding the apples towards the end of the reduction process preserves their texture and tartness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its flavors without overpowering them. Plain boiled rice or mashed potatoes make excellent bases that absorb the delicious glaze. For a touch of green, consider serving with steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, ideal for achieving a tender and juicy chicken. The reduction of the marinade into a glaze utilizes the technique of simmering, which concentrates the flavors beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Bramley apples are not available, any tart cooking apple can be used as a substitute. Similarly, if you prefer not to use honey, maple syrup or agave nectar are suitable alternatives that maintain the dish's sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken can be marinated up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together more deeply. The glaze can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve, making this dish perfect for entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken on a platter, drizzled generously with the glaze and garnished with orange zest and fresh herbs for a pop of color. Sliced apples arranged around the chicken can enhance the visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with this dish, complementing its fruity and savory notes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a little water or orange juice to the glaze if it has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze contains approximately 300-350 calories. This makes it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the Bramley apples and the honey used in the glaze. A single serving contains approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates. The apples also contribute dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Fats

The olive oil and the natural fats from the chicken contribute to the fat content of this dish. A serving contains roughly 10-15 grams of fat, with a mix of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and a smaller amount of saturated fats. Using olive oil, which is high in monounsaturated fats, makes this dish heart-friendly.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of this dish provides about 30-35 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. This makes the dish particularly suitable for those following a high-protein diet.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to its diverse ingredients. The chicken contributes B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B6, essential for energy metabolism. Bramley apples are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, while orange juice adds a significant amount of vitamin C, supporting immune function.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific food sensitivities should ensure that all ingredients meet their dietary requirements.

Summary

Overall, Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with the tartness of apples and a sweet, citrusy glaze. It's a nutritious, flavorful meal that's sure to impress, offering a modern twist on the classic combination of fruit and poultry. With its simple preparation and versatile serving options, it's a perfect choice for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had been browsing through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Baked Chicken with Bramley Apples and Orange Glaze caught my eye.

I had never heard of using Bramley apples in a savory dish before, and the combination of the sweet fruit with the tangy orange glaze sounded absolutely delicious. I knew I had to try it.

I decided to make the dish for Sunday dinner, as a special treat for my family. I gathered all the ingredients I would need – a whole chicken, Bramley apples, oranges, honey, and a few other spices and seasonings. As I began to prepare the dish, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years.

Growing up, my mother had taught me how to cook simple, hearty meals that were perfect for feeding a family. She had learned many of her recipes from her own mother, who had learned from hers, and so on. Each generation passing down their knowledge and love of cooking to the next.

When I got married and started my own family, I continued this tradition. I experimented with new ingredients and techniques, always looking for ways to make a dish my own. And now, as I stood in my kitchen preparing this new recipe, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in how far I had come.

The chicken was seasoned and placed in the oven to bake, filling the house with a delicious aroma. The Bramley apples were peeled and sliced, ready to be added to the dish later on. And the orange glaze was simmering on the stove, thickening and becoming more fragrant by the minute.

As the dish cooked, I thought about all the different places I had learned to cook over the years. From my mother's kitchen to cooking classes I had taken as a young woman, each experience had shaped me into the cook I was today. I had even picked up tips and tricks from friends and neighbors, always eager to learn something new.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the chicken out of the oven and added the sliced Bramley apples to the dish. I brushed the orange glaze over everything, the sweet and tangy flavors mixing together perfectly. The dish was then placed back in the oven to finish cooking, the apples softening and caramelizing as they baked.

When the dish was finally done, I brought it to the table and served it to my family. The chicken was tender and juicy, the Bramley apples adding a touch of sweetness to every bite. The orange glaze was the perfect finishing touch, adding a burst of citrus flavor that tied everything together.

As my family ate and complimented me on the dish, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This recipe had quickly become one of my favorites, a new addition to the long list of dishes I had learned to make over the years. And as I sat at the table, surrounded by my loved ones, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of our family's culinary traditions for years to come.