Name: Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 4-pound chicken, cut in half, cleaned; ½ cup orange marmalade (the star of our glaze); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for crispy skin); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (adds umami); 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (adds acidity); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (balances sweetness); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (offers earthy aroma); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (adds Mediterranean flavor); 2 teaspoons salt (for seasoning); 1 teaspoon black pepper (adds heat); 1 large shallot, thinly sliced (adds sweetness); 2 oranges, cut into slices (for flavor and garnish); 1 lemon, cut into slices (for flavor and garnish)

There’s something undeniably inviting about the aroma of a roast chicken wafting through your home. It evokes warmth, comfort, and a promise of delightful flavors. Today, we’re diving into the world of vibrant tastes with a recipe for Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken. Featuring a stunning blend of orange and lemon, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or any occasion that calls for a little culinary celebration. The sweet and tangy glaze seeps into the chicken, ensuring that each bite is a burst of citrus goodness. Let’s get started!

Why It Works Every Time

This Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken is designed to impress with minimal effort. The combination of orange marmalade, fresh citrus juices, and herbs creates a glaze that not only caramelizes beautifully in the oven but also enhances the chicken’s natural flavors. The result is a succulent, juicy bird with a delightful crispy skin that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredient Breakdown

4-pound chicken, cut in half, cleaned: This ensures even cooking and allows the glaze to envelop every piece.
½ cup orange marmalade: The star of our glaze, adding sweetness and a glossy finish.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to achieve that golden, crispy skin while adding richness.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami to the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice: Brightens up the flavor profile with fresh acidity.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Enhances the citrus notes and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy aroma that complements the citrus.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
2 teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing flavor.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
1 large shallot, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and depth when roasted.
2 oranges, cut into slices: These not only flavor the chicken but also serve as a beautiful garnish.
1 lemon, cut into slices: Similar to the oranges, they add flavor and visual appeal.

Prep & Cook Tools

Roasting pan: A sturdy pan is essential for evenly roasting the chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Sharp knife: Used for slicing the chicken and citrus.
Cooking brush: Ideal for spreading the glaze evenly over the chicken.
Oven mitts: Always handy when handling hot cookware!

Cooking Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This will be the delicious glaze that infuses your chicken with flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the halved chicken in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to crisp the skin and caramelize the glaze.

Step 4: Prepare for Roasting

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in your roasting pan. Arrange the sliced shallots, orange slices, and lemon slices around the chicken. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the chicken for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Baste the chicken with the juices from the pan halfway through cooking for extra moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each piece is juicy and tender. Serve with the roasted citrus and shallots for a delightful presentation.

Healthier Substitutions

Use low-sugar orange marmalade: A great way to reduce the sugar content while maintaining flavor.
Replace Worcestershire sauce with a homemade version: If you want to avoid certain additives, you can create your own with soy sauce, vinegar, and spices.
Opt for a skinless chicken: For a leaner option, use skinless chicken parts.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and oregano can elevate the flavor while being a healthier choice.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

Skipping the marinating step: This is crucial for flavor development, so don’t rush it!
Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is key to crispy skin, so make sure to preheat properly.
Overcooking the chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Neglecting to baste: Basting during roasting helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this delicious dish!), follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will also work beautifully with this glaze. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may cook faster than a whole chicken.

What sides pair well with Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to balance the citrus flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and roast it just before serving for a fresh meal.

Is it necessary to baste the chicken?

Basting is not strictly necessary, but it does help keep the chicken moist and enhances the flavor of the glaze, making it worth the effort!

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Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken, be sure to explore our other recipes for more mouthwatering ideas. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian delights, hearty sides, or decadent desserts, we have something for everyone. Each recipe is crafted with love and designed to bring joy to your kitchen. Happy cooking!