Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs for One
Indulge in this delectable Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs for One, featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a vibrant orange sauce. The sweet and tangy flavor of fresh orange juice combined with a hint of brown sugar creates a delightful glaze that elevates the dish. Perfect for a quick weekday meal or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is both simple and satisfying. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or seasonal vegetables to create a beautifully balanced meal that's as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken thigh fillet
1-2 (Trimmed of excess fat and cut into three or four pieces)
Orange
1/2 (Juiced and zested)
Brown sugar
1 teaspoon (None)
Mayonnaise
2 tablespoons (Plain)
Instructions
1
Begin by trimming the chicken thighs of any excess fat and cutting them into three or four bite-size pieces for even cooking.
2
Prepare your steamer by lining it with baking paper to prevent the chicken from sticking.
3
Place the chicken pieces in the lined steamer and steam them for about five minutes, or until they are no longer pink inside.
4
While the chicken is steaming, finely grate the orange rind and mix it with the mayonnaise in a small bowl to create a flavorful topping.
5
In a frying pan, heat the freshly squeezed orange juice along with the brown sugar over medium heat. Stir the mixture until it begins to bubble, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6
Once the sauce has thickened and bubbles are larger, add the steamed chicken pieces along with any juices that have accumulated. Fry the chicken in the orange sauce for about thirty seconds on each side to ensure they are well-coated.
7
To serve, plate the chicken and generously drizzle the orange sauce over the top, adding a dollop of the orange-mayonnaise mixture. Pair it with your favorite salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein used in this recipe is chicken thigh fillet.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is specifically designed for one serving.
How should the chicken thighs be prepared before cooking?
The chicken thighs should be trimmed of excess fat and cut into three or four bite-size pieces.
Why is baking paper used in the steamer?
Baking paper is used to line the steamer to prevent the chicken pieces from sticking to the surface.
How long should the chicken be steamed?
The chicken should be steamed for approximately five minutes until it is no longer pink inside.
What are the ingredients for the mayonnaise topping?
The topping is made by mixing finely grated orange rind with plain mayonnaise.
How do you make the orange glaze?
Heat freshly squeezed orange juice and brown sugar in a frying pan over medium heat until it bubbles and thickens.
How long do you fry the chicken in the sauce?
The steamed chicken should be fried in the orange sauce for about thirty seconds on each side.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly to ensure it remains tender.
What type of sugar is recommended for the glaze?
The recipe calls for one teaspoon of brown sugar to create the sweet glaze.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used as a substitute.
What should I serve with this orange chicken?
It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While best served fresh, it can be prepared quickly for a weekday meal.
What if I don't have a steamer?
If you don't have a steamer, you can lightly poach the chicken or pan-fry it until cooked through before adding the glaze.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
Yes, honey can be a great alternative to brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is the orange zest necessary?
The zest adds a vibrant citrus aroma and flavor to the mayonnaise topping, which complements the glaze.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: chicken thigh fillet, orange, brown sugar, and mayonnaise.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe focuses on sweet and tangy flavors rather than heat.
How do I know when the sauce is ready for the chicken?
The sauce is ready when it starts to bubble and the bubbles become larger, indicating it has thickened.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure the chicken is fully thawed and patted dry before trimming and cooking.
What kind of mayonnaise is best?
Plain, full-fat mayonnaise is typically used, but you can use a light version if preferred.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding a little minced garlic to the frying pan with the juice can add extra depth to the sauce.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are gluten-free, but always check your mayonnaise label to ensure it is gluten-free.
Can I use a different citrus fruit?
Yes, lemon or lime could work, but you may need to adjust the sugar amount as they are more acidic than oranges.
How do I zest an orange?
Use a fine grater or microplane to remove only the bright orange outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Can I double this recipe for two people?
Absolutely, simply double the quantities of all ingredients and use a larger frying pan.
Why do I add the juices from the steamed chicken into the pan?
The juices contain flavor and help thin the glaze slightly while ensuring the chicken stays moist.
What is the texture of the finished chicken?
The chicken should be tender and juicy with a sticky, vibrant orange coating.
Can I use skin-on chicken thighs?
This recipe suggests fillets, but if using skin-on, you might prefer to sear the skin for crispness.
How long does the whole process take?
The recipe is designed to be a quick meal, taking roughly 15-20 minutes from prep to plate.