Braised orange chicken –Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with some hearty meals that warm you from the inside out. Braising is one of those cooking methods that brings out the rich flavors and makes everything tender and juicy. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s just right for those chillier evenings: Orange Soy Braised Chicken Thighs. It’s savory, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. So, let’s get started!
Orange Soy Braised Chicken Thighs
This dish is all about balancing flavors and creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of orange and soy sauce gives it a unique twist that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip them over and brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce, orange juice, and honey, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the orange slices and stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure they are nestled in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to braise for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once done, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 10 minutes to thicken up the sauce. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve your Orange Soy Braised Chicken Thighs over a bed of steaming rice or with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. This dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your winter table!