Experience the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine in the comfort of your own kitchen with this Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake. This dish marries the tangy, sweet taste of orange with the savory, umami notes of teriyaki, resulting in a delightful fusion of flavors. The chicken is baked to perfection, ensuring a moist and succulent interior with a slightly crispy exterior.
Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are staples in many kitchens. However, ginger root, sesame oil, and rice vinegar might not be readily available in your pantry. These are integral to achieve the desired Asian flavors, so be sure to pick them up when you're at the grocery store. Another key ingredient is the orange, which gives this dish its unique twist, so be sure to grab a fresh one!
Ingredients for Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
chicken thighs and drumsticks: The main protein of this dish, chicken thighs and drumsticks are known for their juicy and flavorful meat.
cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
green onions: Adds a subtle, slightly sweet flavor.
sesame seeds: Provides a nutty taste and an attractive finish.
orange juice: Gives the dish a tangy sweetness.
soy sauce: Adds umami and depth of flavor.
brown sugar: Provides sweetness that balances out the soy sauce.
rice vinegar: Gives a sharp, clean flavor that brightens up the other ingredients.
garlic cloves: Gives a robust, pungent flavor.
ginger: Adds a warm, spicy kick.
sesame oil: Contributes a toasty, nutty flavor.
chili flakes: Adds a bit of heat for a nice contrast to the other flavors.
water: Used to dilute the sauce to your desired consistency.
One reader, Clare Janssen says:
This orange teriyaki chicken bake recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, and the chicken comes out so tender and juicy. The aroma while it's baking is simply mouthwatering. It's become a family favorite in our house!
Techniques Required for Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
How to prepare the sauce: Combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chili flakes, and water in a small pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and cool.
How to zest an orange: Use a zester or a fine grater to remove the outer orange peel. Be careful to only remove the colored part of the peel, as the white pith underneath is bitter.
How to slice an orange: Cut the orange in half, then squeeze half of the orange into the sauce. Thinly slice the remaining orange half and cut each slice into quarters.
How to bake the chicken: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Once the chicken and sauce are combined, pour them into a greased 9x13-inch dish. Place the dish in the oven and turn the heat down to 375 degrees F. Bake for 45 minutes or until the juices run clear, turning the chicken over halfway through.
How to serve: Serve the orange teriyaki chicken on a bed of rice, and enjoy!
How To Make Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
Sink your teeth into this restaurant-style orange teriyaki chicken, smothered in a savory and tangy orange sauce for a filling meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6chicken thighs,bone in, skin on
- 6drumsticks,bone in, skin on
- 1tbspcornstarch
- green onions,for garnish
- sesame seeds,for garnish
For Sauce:
- 2tbsporange juice
- ½cupsoy sauce,low sodium
- 3tbspbrown sugar
- 2tbsprice vinegar
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- 1tbspginger,freshly grated
- 1tspsesame oil
- ¼tspchili flakes
- ¼cupwater
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
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Combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chili flakes, and water in a small pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and cool.
-
Zest ½ teaspoon of orange peel and add it into the sauce. Cut the orange in half, then squeeze ½ of the orange into the sauce. Thinly slice the remaining orang half and cut each slice into 4.
-
Toss the chicken and onions with the orange slices and sauce.
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Pour the chicken and sauce into a greased 9×13-inch dish, then place it in the oven. Turn the heat down to 375 degrees F.
-
Bake for 45 minutes or until juices run clear, turning chicken over halfway through.
-
Serve on rice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 686.39kcal
- Fat: 45.19g
- Saturated Fat: 12.13g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 18.66g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.68g
- Carbohydrates: 8.39g
- Fiber: 0.24g
- Sugar: 4.95g
- Protein: 57.79g
- Cholesterol: 311.50mg
- Sodium: 1466.82mg
- Calcium: 38.09mg
- Potassium: 791.72mg
- Iron: 2.64mg
- Vitamin A: 63.57µg
- Vitamin C: 2.99mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
When preparing the orange teriyaki sauce, it's important to let it cool before adding it to the chicken. This not only prevents the chicken from starting to cook too early, but it also allows the flavors in the sauce to meld together, resulting in a more robust and flavorful dish. Additionally, turning the chicken halfway through the baking process ensures that it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce thoroughly.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to allow the flavors to infuse, saving time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Use a large oven-safe skillet to marinate and bake the chicken in the same dish, minimizing cleanup.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze the extra portions for a quick and convenient meal in the future.
Efficient slicing: Use a mandoline slicer to quickly and uniformly slice the oranges and onions for the dish.
Multitask: While the chicken is baking, use the time to prepare side dishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake Recipe
chicken thighs - Substitute with bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts: Chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken thighs, and the bone-in, skin-on variety will help keep the meat moist and flavorful during baking.
drumsticks - Substitute with chicken wings: Chicken wings can be used as a substitute for drumsticks, providing a similar texture and flavor while also being easier to eat and handle.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch, providing a similar consistency to the sauce.
orange juice - Substitute with tangerine juice: Tangerine juice can be used as a substitute for orange juice, providing a slightly sweeter and tangier flavor to the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a type of soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for regular soy sauce, providing a gluten-free alternative with a rich umami flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a unique depth of flavor to the dish.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice vinegar, providing a slightly fruity and tangy flavor to the sauce.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a convenient and long-lasting alternative with a milder flavor.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar warm and spicy flavor to the dish.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil can be used as a substitute for sesame oil, providing a nutty and flavorful base for the dish.
chili flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for chili flakes, providing a mild heat and vibrant color to the dish.
Presenting Your Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Introduce contrasting textures to the plate by adding a crunchy element such as sesame seeds or toasted almonds. This will provide a delightful sensory experience for the diners.
Balance the elements: Arrange the chicken pieces meticulously, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors and shapes. Pair the dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice to complement the flavors and create a well-rounded presentation.
Artful drizzling: Use the teriyaki sauce as a canvas and drizzle it around the plate in a deliberate and artistic manner. This adds a touch of finesse and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions and a hint of orange zest on top of the chicken to provide a final touch of freshness and elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
- Oven: Used for baking and roasting dishes.
- Small pan: Used for heating and cooking small amounts of food or liquids.
- 9x13-inch dish: A baking dish used for cooking and serving casseroles, baked goods, and other dishes.
- Knife: Used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: Used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Zester: Used for grating the outer peel of citrus fruits.
- Saucepan: Used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small amounts of food.
- Measuring spoons: Used for measuring small amounts of ingredients.
- Mixing spoon: Used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Greased 9x13-inch dish: A baking dish that has been coated with a thin layer of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and handling the chicken while cooking.
- Serving dish: Used for serving the finished dish.
Storing and Freezing Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
- Allow the orange teriyaki chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chicken and sauce into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- If you want to freeze the teriyaki chicken:
- Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- The frozen orange teriyaki chicken will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat the stored or frozen chicken:
- If frozen, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring the sauce occasionally to ensure even heating.
- When reheating, make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to consume.
How To Reheat Leftover Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover orange teriyaki chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken pieces in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to keep the chicken moist during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be sure to check the chicken every 30 seconds to avoid overheating.
If you have a stovetop grill pan, you can use it to reheat the chicken and give it a nice char. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and brush it with a little sesame oil. Place the chicken pieces on the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and has some nice grill marks.
For a flavorful twist, you can shred the leftover chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or sandwiches. Simply reheat the shredded chicken in a pan with a little bit of the leftover orange teriyaki sauce until it's heated through, then use it as a tasty filling for your favorite dishes.
Interesting Fact About Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
The orange teriyaki chicken bake recipe is a delicious fusion of flavors, combining the sweetness of orange juice with the savory umami of soy sauce. This dish is a perfect balance of tangy and savory, creating a delightful taste experience. The combination of orange juice and soy sauce not only adds a unique flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. Additionally, the use of sesame oil and ginger adds a depth of flavor that elevates the overall taste of the dish. This recipe is a great way to introduce new and exciting flavors to your dinner table.
Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?
This orange teriyaki chicken bake recipe offers a good balance of cost-effectiveness. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken thighs and drumsticks keeps the cost reasonable. The addition of orange juice and sesame oil may slightly increase the overall cost, but the dish still remains budget-friendly. The flavorful outcome and the ability to feed a family of four make it a practical choice. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-20, making it a cost-effective option. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?
The orange teriyaki chicken bake recipe is a flavorful dish that combines savory and sweet elements. However, from a nutritional standpoint, there are some aspects that could be improved to make it a healthier meal:
- The recipe relies heavily on soy sauce, which is high in sodium. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.
- Brown sugar adds extra calories and carbohydrates to the dish. While it contributes to the teriyaki flavor, it's important to be mindful of the amount used.
- The recipe doesn't include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal. Incorporating a variety of vegetables would increase the nutritional value of the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of soy sauce used and opt for a low-sodium version. This will help decrease the overall sodium content of the dish.
- Replace some or all of the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. These alternatives still provide sweetness but offer some additional nutritional benefits.
- Add a variety of vegetables to the dish, such as:
- Bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Snap peas
- Mushrooms
- Use skinless chicken thighs and drumsticks to reduce the fat content. Removing the skin will still allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce while cutting down on unnecessary fat.
- Serve the chicken with a side of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. These whole grains provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to their refined counterparts.
Editor's Thoughts on Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake
The orange teriyaki chicken bake recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of orange juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The addition of ginger and garlic adds depth to the dish, while the sesame oil and chili flakes provide a subtle hint of heat. The use of orange slices not only infuses the dish with citrusy brightness but also adds a visually appealing element. Overall, this recipe offers a tantalizing twist on traditional teriyaki chicken, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.
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Why trust this Orange Teriyaki Chicken Bake Recipe:
This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors, combining the savory richness of soy sauce and the sweetness of orange juice. The addition of ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth, while the touch of sesame oil adds a delightful nuttiness. The use of brown sugar and rice vinegar creates a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes. The result is a succulent and flavorful chicken bake that promises to tantalize the taste buds. With its carefully selected ingredients and meticulous preparation, this recipe is sure to earn the trust of discerning home cooks.
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