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Sticky orange glazed chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite among both children and adults. This vibrant meal not only tantalizes the taste buds with its rich, citrusy glaze but also adds a splash of color to your dinner table, making it an eye-catching choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The simplicity of preparation means that even novice cooks can create this dish without feeling overwhelmed.

Sticky Orange Glazed Chicken Skillet

Discover the irresistible flavors of sticky orange glazed chicken in this delicious skillet recipe! Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory citrus glaze, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Easy to prepare and packed with healthy ingredients like fresh oranges, honey, and ginger, this meal is as nutritious as it is stunning. Impress your family and friends with this vibrant and flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 medium orange

1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (approximately 2-3 medium oranges)

1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)

1/4 cup honey

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: Trim any visible fat from the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Evenly season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.

    Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

      Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not burned. Stir in the grated orange zest, fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger. Mix everything together well.

        Simmer the Sauce: Increase the heat slightly to bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. If you desire a thicker glaze, add the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your liking.

          Glaze the Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, making sure to coat them evenly with the sticky orange glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally, until they are heated through and generously coated with the sauce.

            Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is glossy and the sauce is adequately thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle any leftover glaze from the skillet over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

              Enjoy: Serve your Sticky Orange Glazed Chicken alongside steaming rice or a vibrant side of stir-fried vegetables to enjoy the rich flavors of the glaze!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4