Israeli Orange Chicken

Israeli Orange Chicken Recipe - A Flavorful, Authentic Dish

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50-55 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Israeli Orange Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the tangy taste of citrus with savory spices. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is both delicious and easy to prepare.

History

Israeli Orange Chicken is a popular dish in Israel, where citrus fruits are abundant and used in many traditional recipes. The combination of orange juice, lemon juice, and spices creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and savory.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) of cut-up frying chicken
0.25 cup of lemon juice
0.5 cup of orange juice
1 tsp of grated lemon or orange peel
0.25 tsp of tarragon
0.25 tsp of thyme
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 tsp of garlic powder
2 tsp of paprika

How to prepare

Trim any excess fat from the chicken.
Place the chicken in a shallow roasting pan, skin side up, in a single layer.
Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the fat has rendered.
Pour off and discard any excess fat.
In a separate bowl, combine the citrus juices, peel, tarragon, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste.
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
Continue baking the chicken, basting occasionally, until it is tender, for about 20 to 30 minutes more.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken before serving.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for a different flavor and texture.
Use different citrus fruits like grapefruit or lime for a unique twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim any excess fat from the chicken before cooking to ensure a crispy skin.

- Basting the chicken with the citrus juice mixture helps to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more or less salt, pepper, and spices as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Israeli Orange Chicken can be served with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken at a high temperature initially helps to render the fat and crisp up the skin, while lowering the temperature and basting with the citrus juice mixture ensures that the chicken stays moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have tarragon or thyme, you can use other dried herbs like oregano or basil. You can also use fresh herbs if preferred.

Make Ahead Tips

Israeli Orange Chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating and serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Israeli Orange Chicken with fresh orange slices or chopped herbs for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Israeli Orange Chicken pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Israeli Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Israeli Orange Chicken contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the amount of sauce used.

Carbohydrates

Israeli Orange Chicken is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the citrus juices and spices.

Fats

The main source of fat in this dish comes from the chicken skin, which can be trimmed before cooking to reduce the fat content.

Proteins

Chicken is a lean source of protein, making Israeli Orange Chicken a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

The citrus juices in this dish provide a good source of vitamin C, while the chicken is rich in protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Israeli Orange Chicken is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Israeli Orange Chicken is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the flavors of citrus and spices for a unique and satisfying meal. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Israeli Orange Chicken. It was many years ago, during one of my travels to Israel. I had always been fascinated by the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Middle East, and I was eager to learn more about the flavors and ingredients that made up the delicious dishes I had tried during my time there.

One day, while wandering through the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, I stumbled upon a small, unassuming restaurant that seemed to be tucked away from the main tourist areas. Intrigued by the inviting smells wafting out from the kitchen, I decided to step inside and see what they had to offer.

As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by the warm and welcoming aromas of spices and herbs that filled the air. The walls were adorned with colorful tapestries and paintings depicting scenes from traditional Israeli life, and the sound of laughter and lively conversation echoed throughout the dining room.

I took a seat at a small table near the window and perused the menu, which was written in both Hebrew and English. One dish in particular caught my eye – Israeli Orange Chicken. Intrigued by the combination of sweet and savory flavors, I decided to order it and see what all the fuss was about.

When the dish arrived at my table, I was immediately struck by the vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma. The chicken was perfectly cooked and coated in a sticky, tangy orange sauce that glistened in the soft light of the restaurant. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices that danced on my taste buds.

As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but wonder about the secret behind this delicious dish. I called over the waiter and asked him if he could share the recipe with me. He smiled warmly and told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations of his family, and that he would be happy to teach me how to make it myself.

Over the next few days, I returned to the restaurant and spent hours in the kitchen with the chef, learning the intricacies of preparing Israeli Orange Chicken. I watched as he expertly chopped vegetables, marinated the chicken in a blend of spices and citrus juices, and simmered the sauce until it reached the perfect consistency.

I took careful notes and asked a million questions, determined to master this recipe so that I could share it with my own family and friends back home. The chef was patient and kind, guiding me through each step and offering helpful tips and tricks along the way.

Finally, after several days of practice and experimentation, I felt confident enough to try making Israeli Orange Chicken on my own. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in my own kitchen, channeling the skills and wisdom I had gained from my time in Israel.

As the dish cooked and the aroma of orange and spices filled my home, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. When I took my first bite of the finished dish, I was transported back to that cozy restaurant in Tel Aviv, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a vibrant culture that had captured my heart.

Since that day, Israeli Orange Chicken has become a staple in my repertoire of recipes, a dish that never fails to impress and delight those who taste it. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition and story behind this delicious dish that holds a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day in Tel Aviv when I first discovered the magic of Israeli Orange Chicken, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and memories that have shaped me into the cook and storyteller that I am today. And though I may never return to that small restaurant in Israel, the flavors and aromas of that dish will forever linger in my mind, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to the world and to each other.