Orange-glazed Chicken I

Orange-Glazed Chicken I Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Orange-glazed Chicken I is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the tangy flavors of orange marmalade with the savory taste of chili sauce and mustard. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

History

The combination of orange and chicken has been a popular flavor pairing for centuries. The sweet and citrusy taste of oranges complements the mild flavor of chicken, creating a harmonious and delicious dish. This particular recipe for Orange-glazed Chicken I puts a modern twist on this classic flavor combination, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of Heinz chili sauce
0.25 cup of orange marmalade
1.5 tsp of prepared mustard
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 lb or 454 g)
1 tbsp of margarine

How to prepare

To make the glaze, combine chili sauce, marmalade, and mustard in a small bowl.
Gently flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
In a large skillet, melt the margarine.
Add the chicken and cook until it is browned on both sides.
Pour the glaze over the chicken.
Simmer, uncovered, for 8 minutes, basting occasionally, or until the chicken is tender and no longer pink in the center.

Variations

Try using apricot preserves or peach jam in place of the orange marmalade for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure that they cook evenly.

- Basting the chicken with the glaze while it simmers will help to infuse the flavors into the meat and keep it moist.

- Be sure to simmer the chicken uncovered to allow the glaze to thicken and caramelize slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Orange-glazed Chicken I with steamed rice and a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-searing and simmering are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe. These methods help to lock in the flavors of the glaze and ensure that the chicken is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chili sauce on hand, you can use ketchup mixed with a dash of hot sauce as a substitute. You can also use honey or maple syrup in place of the orange marmalade.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook the chicken. This will save you time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Orange-glazed Chicken I with fresh orange slices and chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Orange-glazed Chicken I with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a light and refreshing meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Orange-glazed Chicken I 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 Orange-glazed Chicken I contains approximately 220 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Orange-glazed Chicken I contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Orange-glazed Chicken I contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Orange-glazed Chicken I contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Orange-glazed Chicken I is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the orange marmalade in the glaze. It also provides a healthy dose of iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains mustard and margarine, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Orange-glazed Chicken I is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.

Summary

Orange-glazed Chicken I is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a tangy and sweet glaze, tender chicken, and a simple cooking process, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, with the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window. I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my mother, searching for inspiration for dinner that evening. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and faded scraps of paper, a worn piece of parchment caught my eye. Written in elegant script was the recipe for Orange-glazed Chicken.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about the combination of citrus and savory flavors intrigued me. I could almost taste the tangy sweetness of the orange glaze mingling with the tender chicken. Without hesitation, I set to work gathering the ingredients and following the carefully detailed instructions.

The recipe called for a whole chicken, cut into pieces and marinated in a mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. As the chicken soaked up the flavors, I prepared the glaze by simmering orange juice, honey, and a touch of cornstarch until it thickened to a glossy sheen. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, a heady mix of citrus and spice that made my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the chicken had marinated and the glaze was ready, I carefully arranged the pieces on a baking sheet and brushed them with the sticky, fragrant glaze. As they cooked in the oven, the glaze caramelized and bubbled, forming a golden crust that promised a burst of flavor with each bite.

When the timer chimed, signaling that the chicken was done, I couldn't wait to taste the results of my labor. The first bite was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that danced across my taste buds. The tender chicken was infused with the bright, zesty notes of orange, balanced by the rich umami of soy sauce and the warmth of ginger and garlic.

From that moment on, Orange-glazed Chicken became a staple in my cooking repertoire. It was a dish that never failed to impress, whether served at a family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. The recipe became synonymous with comfort and celebration, a reminder of that fateful day when I discovered a culinary gem hidden in the depths of my mother's recipe box.

Over the years, I have made Orange-glazed Chicken countless times, each batch a little different from the last as I experimented with new variations and tweaks. I have added a splash of orange liqueur for a boozy kick, or swapped out the chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to the dietary preferences of my guests.

But no matter how many times I make it, the magic of that first taste remains unchanged. Orange-glazed Chicken is more than just a recipe to me; it is a connection to the past, a bridge between generations of cooks who have passed down their knowledge and love of good food.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Orange-glazed Chicken, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of my loved ones, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all the recipes and memories that have shaped my culinary journey. And I know that as long as I have a kitchen and a willing audience, I will continue to share the joy of cooking and the love that goes into each and every dish I create.