Discovered at a Restaurant – The Best Chicken I’ve Ever Tasted!

 

Discovered at a Restaurant – The Best Chicken I’ve Ever Tasted!

Orange-Glazed Roast Chicken: A Zesty Take on a Timeless Favorite

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Servings: 6

Few dishes are as comforting and universally loved as a classic roast chicken. With crispy, golden skin and tender, flavorful meat, it's a go-to for family dinners and special occasions alike. But what if you could add a vibrant twist to it? Enter Orange-Glazed Roast Chicken—a juicy, citrus-infused version that’s sweet, savory, and absolutely unforgettable.

This recipe combines the familiar warmth of roast chicken with the bright, tangy notes of fresh orange juice, complemented by hints of garlic and thyme. The result? A showstopping centerpiece that’s perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 whole chicken (1.5–2 kg)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

4 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

1 teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme

1 orange, sliced

For the Citrus Glaze:

½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2 oranges)

¼ cup honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon orange zest

¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)

Instructions

Get the Chicken Ready

Preheat the Oven to 200°C (400°F).

Clean and Dry the chicken well with paper towels. Dry skin is key to getting that perfectly crisp finish.

Season the chicken all over with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget the inside of the cavity.

Stuff the cavity with garlic, orange slices, and thyme. These aromatics infuse the chicken as it roasts.

Optional: Tie the legs together for even cooking and a more polished presentation.

2. Prepare the Orange Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, butter, zest, and ginger (if using).

Stir until the butter melts and everything is well mixed.

Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly. Set aside.

3. Roast the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet.

Brush or pour half of the glaze over the chicken, coating it evenly.

Roast in the preheated oven for 60–90 minutes, depending on the chicken’s size.

Halfway through, baste the bird with the remaining glaze for added flavor and a deeper color.

Check for doneness: The internal temperature should hit 74°C (165°F), or the juices should run clear when pierced at the thickest part of the thigh.

4. Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.

This rest time allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.

Carve and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with the roasted orange slices and extra thyme, if desired.

Helpful Tips

Go Organic: For best results, choose a free-range or organic bird.

Fresh Juice Matters: Freshly squeezed orange juice delivers far better flavor than bottled varieties.

Extra Sauce: Want more glaze on the side? Simply double the glaze recipe.

Built-In Sides: Roast the chicken on a bed of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions for a one-pan meal.

Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—they’re perfect for salads, wraps, or sandwiches.

Serving Ideas

Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh arugula salad.

Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Let this citrus-glazed chicken become your next family favorite. It’s a deliciously simple way to add flair to a traditional roast—one bite, and you’ll see why it’s restaurant-worthy!