Discover a delightful twist on a classic chicken dish with this Chicken with Orange Marmalade recipe. Combining the sweet, tangy flavors of orange marmalade with savory chicken breasts, this dish is perfect for those looking to impress at dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
The citrusy glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that keeps the chicken moist and tender. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of sweet and savory that will satisfy your palate and your appetite.
This recipe is straightforward, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The aroma of orange zest combined with the sizzle of chicken in the pan will fill your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance.
Pair it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken with Orange Marmalade recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The marmalade adds a bright, citrus sweetness that complements the savory chicken, producing a glaze that’s sticky, tangy, and utterly delicious.
Not only is the preparation quick and easy, but the dish also looks stunning when served, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The recipe is highly adaptable — you can adjust the sweetness or add spices to suit your taste.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up that jar of orange marmalade sitting in your pantry!
With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s a fantastic recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike who want to create a memorable meal without fuss.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade (preferably a chunky variety)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork for mixing sauce
- Tongs or spatula for turning chicken
- Serving platter or plates
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Make the sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and orange zest (if using). Whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Heat the skillet: Place your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes until the underside is golden brown.
- Flip and add sauce: Turn the chicken over using tongs. Immediately pour the orange marmalade sauce over the chicken breasts, spooning some over the top.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken cook for another 6-8 minutes, basting occasionally with the sauce, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened into a glaze.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part to check that juices run clear.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices and keeps the meat tender.
- Serve: Spoon any remaining glaze from the pan over the chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the orange marmalade sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken before cooking.
For a low-sodium version, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the salt added to the chicken. Alternatively, you can swap the chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer darker meat — cooking times will vary slightly.
Try adding a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce for extra acidity and brightness. For a more complex sauce, stir in a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger along with the garlic.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 35g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Sugars | 10g |
Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
Fiber | 0.5g |
Sodium | 600mg |
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken with Orange Marmalade pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and fresh meal, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice and sautéed green beans or asparagus.
If you prefer something more hearty, creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes make excellent companions, soaking up the delicious orange glaze.
For a colorful plate, add a crisp salad with mixed greens, toasted almonds, and a light vinaigrette. Garnish the chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten the presentation.
Conclusion
This Chicken with Orange Marmalade recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your everyday chicken dinner with minimal effort. The luscious orange glaze brings a vibrant, sweet citrus flavor that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s equally suitable for family dinners or special occasions.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s an ideal recipe to add to your culinary repertoire. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that makes mealtime special.
Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a delightful balance of sweet and savory that’s sure to become a favorite.
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our Lemon Herb Chicken and Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, or explore our Easy Weeknight Dinner Ideas for inspiration.
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken with Orange Marmalade
Description: A sweet and savory chicken dish glazed with tangy orange marmalade. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a bright citrus flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix orange marmalade, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and pour marmalade mixture over it.
- Bake for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 18 g
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