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Orange Glazed Chicken Breast Recipe

This orange glazed chicken breast is juicy, tender, and coated in a sweet and tangy citrus glaze that's bursting with fresh orange flavor. Pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a sticky garlic orange sauce, this easy 30-minute recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a delicious restaurant-style meal at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water optional, for thickening
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds optional
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, then cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour the orange glaze into the skillet and spoon it over the chicken as it simmers.
  8. If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  9. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  11. Spoon the orange glaze over the chicken and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

  • Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the glaze the brightest flavor.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy version.
  • Don't overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve with jasmine rice, fried rice, noodles, steamed broccoli, snap peas, or roasted carrots.