Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken

Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the tangy taste of orange with the savory flavor of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The marinade infuses the chicken with citrusy goodness, creating a juicy and tender dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The origins of Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Chinese orange chicken dishes. This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic dish by grilling or broiling the chicken, adding a smoky flavor that complements the citrus marinade perfectly.

Ingredients

4 skinless boneless chicken breast halves (about 5 oz or 142 g each, or about 1.5 lb or 680 g total)
0.5 cup frozen unsweetened orange juice concentrate, thawed
0.5 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp grated orange peel
0.5 tsp garlic powder

How to prepare

Place the chicken in a shallow dish.
Mix the remaining ingredients.
You may add salt to taste.
Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Turn the chicken to ensure it is coated with the marinade.
Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, making sure to turn the chicken at least once.
Grill or broil the chicken until the juice of the chicken is no longer pink.
The actual cooking time will vary depending on the heat of the grill, the distance from the broiler heat, and the thickness of the chicken.

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

- If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat before cooking the chicken.

- To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken breasts are of similar thickness.

- Baste the chicken with the marinade while grilling or broiling to keep it moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken with steamed rice and a side of grilled vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling or broiling the chicken gives it a delicious smoky flavor that complements the citrus marinade perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have orange juice concentrate, you can use fresh orange juice instead. You can also substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken overnight to save time on the day of cooking. Simply cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken with fresh orange slices and chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a light and refreshing meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains citrus (orange juice and lemon juice) and garlic, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken is a low-fat, high-protein dish that is rich in vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

Summary

Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The tangy citrus marinade infuses the chicken with juicy goodness, creating a dish that is sure to impress. Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret's house for a garden party. Margaret was known for her delicious and inventive recipes, and she had whipped up this amazing dish that had everyone raving.

As soon as I took my first bite of the tangy and sweet orange chicken, I knew I had to get my hands on the recipe. Margaret was more than happy to share it with me, and she even wrote it down on a piece of parchment paper for me to take home.

The recipe called for simple ingredients like chicken breasts, fresh orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. It was easy to follow and didn't require any fancy cooking techniques. I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and got to work in the kitchen. I marinated the chicken in a mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. Then, I fired up the grill and cooked the chicken until it was perfectly charred and juicy.

As I plated the chicken and drizzled it with a honey-orange glaze, the aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water. I took a bite, and it was just as delicious as I remembered from Margaret's garden party. The combination of the citrusy orange, savory soy sauce, and sweet honey was a match made in heaven.

I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my cooking repertoire. Over the years, I made Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken for countless family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for a cozy night in with my husband. It never failed to impress and always left everyone asking for the recipe.

As time went on, I shared the recipe with friends and family, just like Margaret had done for me. Each time I made the dish, I would think back to that sunny afternoon in Margaret's garden, where it all began. The memories of laughter, good food, and friendship were as sweet as the orange chicken itself.

I loved how food had the power to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to pass down traditions from one generation to the next. And this recipe for Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken was a perfect example of that.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened, and I continued to experiment with new recipes and techniques. But no matter how many dishes I tried, the Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken would always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on all the years that have passed, I am grateful for the simple pleasures in life – good food, good friends, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love. And I am grateful for that fateful day when I first laid eyes on the recipe for Grilled or Broiled Orange Chicken. It's a dish that will forever remind me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.