If you're looking for a perfectly roasted chicken that's juicy, flavorful, and visually stunning, this Orange Glazed Roast Chicken is the recipe for you. With a sweet and tangy citrus glaze, a golden-brown crispy skin, and tender, moist meat, this dish is a showstopper. Inspired by restaurant-quality flavors, this homemade version is easy to prepare and delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort.
Pair it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad, and you have a meal that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients for Orange Glazed Roast Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (1.5 to 2 kg / 3.3 to 4.4 lbs) – The star of the dish, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve crispy, golden-brown skin.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed) – Adds depth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs) – Complements the citrus flavors with an earthy touch.
- 1 orange (sliced) – Infuses the chicken with natural sweetness and moisture as it roasts.
For the Orange Glaze:
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice – The base of the glaze, adding bright, tangy citrus notes.
- ¼ cup honey – Brings natural sweetness and helps caramelize the skin.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Enriches the glaze and creates a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest – Intensifies the orange flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon ginger powder (optional) – Adds warmth and a subtle spice to enhance the glaze.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is key to achieving crispy skin. Rub the entire surface with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stuff the cavity with garlic cloves and sliced orange to infuse the meat with flavor from the inside out.
2. Make the Orange Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, butter, orange zest, and ginger powder (if using). Heat over medium-low heat until the butter is melted and all ingredients are fully blended. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. This will be used to baste the chicken and create that signature glossy finish.
3. Glaze and Roast the Chicken
Place the prepared chicken in a baking dish or roasting pan. Pour half of the orange glaze over the chicken, ensuring even coverage. Roast in the preheated oven for 60-90 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken.
4. Baste for Extra Flavor
Halfway through roasting, brush the remaining glaze over the chicken to intensify the flavor and give the skin a beautiful caramelized coating. If the skin starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the chicken with foil.
5. Rest Before Serving
Once the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) at the thickest part of the chicken, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving—this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the chicken and serve it with roasted orange slices, allowing guests to enjoy even more citrusy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and citrus flavors
✔ Golden, crispy skin with a juicy, tender inside
✔ Easy to make but restaurant-quality in taste
✔ Pairs well with a variety of side dishes
Pro Tips for the Best Orange Glazed Roast Chicken
✅ Pat the chicken dry before roasting to achieve crispy skin.
✅ Use fresh orange juice and zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor.
✅ Baste the chicken halfway through roasting for an extra glossy glaze.
✅ Let the chicken rest before carving to keep it juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Orange Glazed Roast Chicken with these delicious sides:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and rich, the perfect contrast to the tangy glaze.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Carrots – Enhances the caramelized sweetness of the chicken.
- Fluffy White or Brown Rice – A simple, neutral side that soaks up the delicious glaze.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Glazed Roast Chicken is a must-try recipe, combining sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a stunning, flavorful dish that rivals any restaurant meal. Try it for a weeknight dinner, holiday feast, or special occasion, and impress your family and friends with its incredible taste and beautiful presentation.
Make this dish today and elevate your home cooking with the perfect citrus-infused roast chicken!