Orange Chipotle Baked Chicken

5m
Prep Time
45m
Cook Time
50m
Ready In


"A simple, but delicious, marinated and baked chicken. Now, I used chicken quarters for this recipe; but, this would be delicious with any cut of chicken. I think using fresh orange juice and cilantro is also really key. And, I add orange wedges and onions to the pan, as the chicken bakes; it really adds a nice flavor. This recipe is for 2-3 chicken quarters (depending on the size); but, simply double if necessary. Prep time does NOT include marinating time."

Original is 3-4 servings
  • MARINADE

Nutritional

  • Serving Size: 1 (253 g)
  • Calories 259.6
  • Total Fat - 14.5 g
  • Saturated Fat - 2.1 g
  • Cholesterol - 45.4 mg
  • Sodium - 18.4 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate - 29.8 g
  • Dietary Fiber - 4.3 g
  • Sugars - 21.5 g
  • Protein - 5.7 g
  • Calcium - 78.5 mg
  • Iron - 1.7 mg
  • Vitamin C - 78.1 mg
  • Thiamin - 0.2 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

A Couple of Notes ... Use any seasonal orange - the sweeter the better. Halo or (mandarin) oranges were in season, so that is what I used. Don't use canned; you need fresh. Also, fresh cilantro is important for this dish. And, most grocery store carry a Mexican seasoning; but, you could always use a basic all purpose seasoning, if that is all that is available.

Step 2

Marinade ... Now, I use a ziploc bag to marinate the chicken - easy and disposable. You could always use a glass bowl, but not metal. Add everything to the bag, along with the chicken; close, and shake until everything is coated and combined. Refrigerate at least 1 hour; but, I prefer 4-6 if possible. However, NO longer - the citrus juice will actually start to 'cook' the chicken.

Step 3

Chicken ... Add the chicken to a 9x9 pan (lined with parchment or foil for easy clean up), or similar size dish; along with the onions, orange wedges; and, a little chicken broth - just so it doesn't burn. Season the chicken with the Mexican seasoning, a little salt; and, paprika.

Step 4

Bake ... In a 350 degree oven, middle shelf; for 45 minutes. Now, depending on the size of the chicken; and, the pieces you use - cooking time could vary. For the quarters, 45 minutes was perfect.

Step 5

Serve and ENJOY! ... Squeeze those roasted oranges over the chicken before serving. And, don't forget to serve those roasted onions with the chicken too. Cheesy polenta would be a great side dish. I also love a good salad with more oranges and a creamy poppy seed dressing. It sort of ties the whole meal together.

Tips


No special items needed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.


  • Use any seasonal orange - the sweeter the better. Halo or (mandarin) oranges were in season, so that is what I used. Don't use canned; you need fresh.
  • Fresh cilantro is important for this dish. And, most grocery store carry a Mexican seasoning; but, you could always use a basic all purpose seasoning, if that is all that is available.

  • Instead of orange juice, use pineapple juice. Pineapple juice will give the marinade a sweet and tangy flavor that will pair nicely with the smoky chipotle.
  • Instead of Mexican seasoning, use garlic powder. Garlic powder will provide a savory flavor to the marinade, which will complement the sweetness of the pineapple juice.

Lemon Lime Baked Chicken Replace the orange juice and oranges with lemon juice and limes. Replace the chipotles with jalapenos and the Mexican seasoning with a Greek seasoning. Use honey and olive oil for the marinade, as before.



Cheesy Polenta: A creamy and cheesy polenta dish made with butter, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. It's a great side dish to pair with the Orange Chipotle Baked Chicken as it compliments the sweetness of the oranges and the smokiness of the chipotle. Plus, it's a great way to add some extra flavor and texture to the meal!


Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with the Orange Chipotle Baked Chicken. The sweetness of the oranges and the smokiness of the chipotle is balanced out by the earthy flavors of the roasted broccoli. Plus, it's an easy dish to make and adds a great crunch to the meal!




FAQ

Q: What kind of oranges should I use for this recipe?

A: Use any seasonal orange - the sweeter the better. Halo or (mandarin) oranges were in season, so that is what I used. Don't use canned; you need fresh.



Q: What is the best way to store oranges?

A: Store oranges at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If you need to store them for more than a few days, place them in a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator.

1 Reviews

ellie

Great chicken - we used 4 chicken thighs and marinated them for one hour. I used one big orange and used Italian seasoning. Skipped the chicken broth which it really didn't need and forgot the cilantro. Great chicken which we enjoyed. Thanks for sharing!

5.0

review by:
(28 Mar 2015)

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Fun facts:

The chipotles used in this recipe are a type of smoked jalapeno pepper, originating from Mexico. It is believed that the Aztecs were the first to smoke peppers to preserve them, and the technique was later adopted by the Spanish.

Orange juice has been a popular breakfast drink for centuries. It was served to English royalty in the 1600s, and in the late 1800s, it was served to President Grover Cleveland and his cabinet members at the White House.