Orange Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the tangy sweetness of oranges with aromatic garlic and thyme. This zesty chicken recipe is perfect for those seeking a burst of citrusy goodness in their meals. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
The combination of fresh thyme, minced garlic, orange juice concentrate, and balsamic vinegar creates a delightful marinade that infuses the chicken with a burst of flavors. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while absorbing all the aromatic elements of the marinade.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1½ teaspoons thyme
- 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 6 chicken breasts
- 1 cup (284 g) orange juice concentrate
- 2 tablespoons (28 ml) balsamic vinegar
PREPARATIONS:
- Rub the thyme and minced garlic over the chicken breasts.
- Reserve any leftover thyme and garlic.
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the orange juice concentrate and balsamic vinegar.
- Stir in the reserved thyme and garlic.
- Spoon the mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2½ to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender but not dry.
YIELD:
- 6 servings
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Thicker cuts may require additional cooking time.
- Basting the chicken with the marinade occasionally during the cooking process will help enhance the flavors and keep the chicken moist.
TIPS:
- For added depth of flavor, marinate the chicken breasts with the thyme, garlic, and a small amount of the orange juice mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours before placing them in the slow cooker.
- Garnish the dish with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an attractive presentation.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- 71 g water; 164 calories (10% from fat, 44% from protein, 46% from carb)
- 18 g protein; 2 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 1 g monounsaturated fat; 0 g polyunsaturated fat; 19 g carb; 0 g fiber; 18 g sugar
- 123 mg phosphorus; 29 mg calcium; 1 mg iron; 38 mg sodium; 434 mg potassium; 200 IU vitamin A; 3 mg ATE vitamin E; 66 mg vitamin C; 44 mg cholesterol
Orange Chicken is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with aromatic garlic and thyme. This recipe offers a burst of citrusy goodness and is perfect for those seeking a vibrant and flavorful meal. Whether served over rice or noodles, this zesty chicken is sure to please your taste buds.
The combination of fresh thyme and minced garlic adds a savory element to the marinade, complementing the bright flavors of the orange juice concentrate and balsamic vinegar. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and succulent while absorbing all the delicious flavors of the marinade.
To enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken, consider marinating the chicken breasts with the thyme, garlic, and a small amount of the orange juice mixture before cooking. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and takes the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
When serving Orange Chicken, don’t forget to garnish it with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will add visual appeal to the dish, making it even more enticing.
Orange Chicken is not only delicious but also a nutritious option. With a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, this dish provides a satisfying and well-rounded meal. The high vitamin C content from the orange juice concentrate contributes to your daily nutrient intake and supports a healthy immune system.
In conclusion, Orange Chicken is a fantastic recipe that combines the vibrant flavors of oranges with aromatic garlic and thyme. The slow cooking process ensures tender and juicy chicken that is bursting with citrusy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is a delightful choice that will leave everyone satisfied.
