Baked Orange Chicken

If you’re craving something vibrant and tangy, this Baked Orange Chicken is going to rock your dinner routine. Succulent chicken thighs bathed in a tangy orange and honey sauce bring a burst of flavor that makes every bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re gathering the family around the table after a busy day or hosting friends for a casual weeknight feast, this beginner-friendly recipe has got your back. With only 15 minutes of prep time, 45 minutes of cooking, and a quick 5-minute rest, you’ll have a gorgeous, restaurant-worthy meal on the table without breaking a sweat. And clocking in at around 400 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying but still reasonable option for those counting carbs or calories.

From the very first dip of your fork into the glossy sauce, you’ll notice the perfect harmony of sweet honey, zesty orange, and that gentle, savory umami from soy sauce. Every forkful feels like a celebration of textures and layers of taste—sticky, citrusy, and just the right amount of peppery warmth. The fresh ginger and garlic awaken your senses and promise that each piece of chicken is infused with depth and personality. I still remember the first time I shared this dish with my partner—his eyes lit up as he mopped up every last drop of sauce with jasmine rice. It’s that kind of meal: simple, lively, and deeply satisfying. So grab your apron, rally your ingredients, and let’s dive into a vibrant, flavor-packed adventure in the kitchen!

KEY INGREDIENTS IN BAKED ORANGE CHICKEN

Before we fire up the oven, let’s get to know the stars of our show. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible glossy finish that makes this dish shine. From the juicy base of chicken thighs to the bright pop of orange zest, these essentials work together to create a balanced, mouthwatering experience.

• Boneless chicken thighs

These tender, juicy cuts absorb the sauce beautifully and remain moist throughout baking, making every bite rich and succulent.

• Orange juice

Provides the bright, citrusy backbone of the sauce—its natural acidity balances the sweetness and tenderizes the chicken.

• Soy sauce

Delivers savory depth and umami, rounding out the sweet-tart profile with a salty kick that enhances every layer of flavor.

• Honey

Adds viscosity and natural sweetness, helping to thicken the sauce and achieve a beautifully sticky glaze.

• Rice vinegar

Introduces a gentle tang that lifts the sauce, deepening the citrus notes without overpowering them.

• Olive oil

Ensures a smooth sauce texture and helps the chicken develop a light, golden finish during baking.

• Garlic (minced)

Brings pungent warmth that infuses the sauce with aromatic boldness.

• Fresh ginger (grated)

Offers a zesty, slightly spicy undertone, enhancing the fresh citrus flavor.

• Orange zest

Intensifies the orange essence, adding fragrant oils that make the dish pop.

• Black pepper

Contributes a subtle heat that balances the sweetness and bright citrus.

• Cornstarch

Acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce that irresistible clingy texture.

• Water

Helps dissolve the cornstarch, creating a smooth slurry for thickening.

• Sesame seeds

Provide a nutty crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled on top.

• Sliced green onions

Deliver freshness and a mild bite to finish each plate.

• Orange slices (optional garnish)

Elevate presentation and reinforce the citrus theme with an extra pop of color.

HOW TO MAKE BAKED ORANGE CHICKEN

Let’s walk through the process of transforming these ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. From prepping the sauce to mastering that final glossy finish, each step will guide you to a perfectly baked dish bursting with citrusy-sweet goodness.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even heat distribution so the chicken cooks through without drying out.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, orange zest, and black pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything until the liquid turns smooth and slightly syrupy, guaranteeing flavor in every drop.

3. Arrange the chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer. Spreading them apart prevents overcrowding, promoting even cooking and allowing the sauce to coat each piece.

4. Pour the orange sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, using a spoon or spatula to ensure each thigh is thoroughly coated in that brilliant, tangy glaze.

5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. The foil traps steam, gently cooking the chicken and infusing it with sauce.

6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce begins to thicken around the edges.

7. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. This creates a slurry that will help the sauce cling to the chicken without lumps.

8. Add the cornstarch mixture to the cooking juices in the baking dish, gently stirring to combine and lift any flavorful bits from the bottom.

9. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has reached your desired thickness and is gloriously glossy.

10. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This pause allows juices to redistribute, keeping each piece tender and moist.

11. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and optional orange slices for a beautiful finish. Then, serve alongside steamed rice or your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying dinner.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BAKED ORANGE CHICKEN

Once your Baked Orange Chicken is ready, these serving ideas will help you turn a simple dish into a full-blown feast. From cozy weeknight dinners to casual gatherings, these suggestions ensure each plate is both delicious and visually stunning.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice

Fluffy, fragrant jasmine rice is the classic companion. Spoon the chicken and extra sauce over a bed of rice to soak up every drop of citrusy goodness.

• Crisp Green Salad

A simple mix of greens, cucumber ribbons, and a light sesame dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the sweet, sticky chicken.

• Stir-Fried Vegetables

Quick-toss broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas in a hot pan with a splash of soy sauce for a colorful, nutrient-packed side that complements the flavors.

• Toasted Sesame Noodles

Toss cooked noodles with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and sliced scallions for a nutty, aromatic twist that plays beautifully off the orange sauce.

HOW TO STORE BAKED ORANGE CHICKEN

Whether you’re meal-prepping for busy weekdays or simply want to save those delicious leftovers, proper storage is key to preserving texture and flavor. Here’s how to keep your Baked Orange Chicken tasting fresh:

• Refrigeration

Transfer cooled chicken and sauce into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Keep sauce and chicken together to retain moisture.

• Freezing

For longer storage, place portions in freezer-friendly, airtight bags or containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Separate Sauce Storage

If you anticipate reheating multiple times, store sauce and chicken separately in sealed containers. Reheat sauce gently on low heat before combining with chicken to maintain a silky texture.

• Reheating Tips

Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, covered, to avoid drying out. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s consistency.

CONCLUSION

From the first slice of chicken to the final drizzle of glossy sauce, this Baked Orange Chicken recipe has everything you need for a spectacular, fuss-free dinner. We’ve covered all the essentials—from choosing the perfect cut of chicken to mastering that sweet-tangy glaze—and equipped you with clever serving ideas and storage tips to keep leftovers just as delightful. This beginner-friendly dish not only delivers bright, citrusy flavors but also gives you room to experiment—feel free to add red pepper flakes for heat, swap chicken thighs for breasts (with adjusted cooking time), or marinate overnight for an extra punch of flavor.

Print this article and save it for later, tuck it into your recipe binder, or pin it to your kitchen bulletin board. You’ll also find a handy FAQ below to troubleshoot any questions you might have. I can’t wait to hear how your Baked Orange Chicken turns out—drop a comment, share a photo, or ask any cooking questions right here. Your feedback, tips, and stories make this community richer, so please let me know if you need help or simply want to celebrate a successful weeknight dinner. Enjoy every juicy, zesty bite!

Print Recipe

Baked Orange Chicken

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Calories: 400

Description

Succulent chicken thighs bathed in a tangy orange and honey sauce bring a burst of flavor. Simple to make and sure to impress family or guests!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, skinless

• 1 cup orange juice

• ¹⁄₄ cup soy sauce

• ¹⁄₄ cup honey

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon orange zest

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons water

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• Sliced green onions for garnish

• Orange slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, orange zest, and black pepper. Whisk together until well mixed.
3. Arrange the chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer.
4. Pour the orange sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is slightly thickened.
7. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the cooking juices in the baking dish, stirring to combine.
8. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the sauce reaches the desired thickness.
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and optional orange slices.
11. Serve with steamed rice or your choice of side dishes.

Note

• Orange zest adds an intense citrus flavor that enhances the dish.
• You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Marinating the chicken overnight can deepen the flavors.
• This dish can be served with a simple green salad to balance the sweetness of the sauce.

Keywords: orange chicken, baked chicken recipe, easy dinner, Asian cuisine, weeknight meals, healthy chicken dish