Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and surprisingly easy? Look no further! This recipe for chicken with orange marmalade delivers a burst of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly memorable meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and offering a healthy meal option. It’s one of those best recipes that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
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Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange marmalade, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. The sauce is the star of this dish, so take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
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Marinate (Optional): For extra flavor, place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the sauce over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This step is optional but highly recommended for maximum flavor absorption.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts (or the unmarinated chicken if you skipped the marinating step). Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. If the sauce reduces too much before the chicken is cooked, add a tablespoon or two of water to keep it moist.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. This easy recipe is also fantastic served with mashed potatoes or couscous.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than four chicken breasts, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure proper browning and even cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of orange marmalade. Conversely, for a sweeter flavor profile, increase the amount.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices to the sauce, such as red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or paprika for a smoky flavor.
Variations:
- Sheet Pan Dinner: Roast the chicken and your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers) on a sheet pan for a complete and easy meal.
- Slow Cooker Option: Place the marinated chicken and sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This chicken recipe with orange marmalade is a testament to how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It’s a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that won't compromise on taste or nutrition. Enjoy!