Baked Tangerine Chicken
This baked tangerine chicken is bursting with tangy, sweet, and savory flavors! The juicy tangerines bring a refreshing citrus twist, while the oven-baking keeps the chicken tender and juicy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 8 thighs)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Tangerine Sauce:
- ½ cup fresh tangerine juice (about 3–4 tangerines)
- 2 tbsp tangerine zest
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a twist)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- Fresh tangerine slices
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions :
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden (this step locks in the juices).
3. Make the Tangerine Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine tangerine juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
4. Bake the Chicken:
- Place the seared chicken in the baking dish and pour the tangerine sauce over it.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through for extra flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh tangerine slices, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions ️
Pair this baked tangerine chicken with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the citrusy sauce.
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a vibrant side dish.
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette for balance.
Tips and Variations ✨
- Add Heat: Mix in a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer, substitute with bone-in thighs or drumsticks; just adjust the baking time to about 40–45 minutes.
- Extra Citrus: Try adding a splash of orange juice or lemon juice for an extra tangy flavor.
Your Turn!
What side dish would you serve with this citrusy chicken? Share your favorite pairings below!