Description
Introducing Citrus-Glazed Chicken Thighs, a delightful recipe that marries the crispiness of fried chicken with the tangy sweetness of an orange glaze. This dish promises not only a burst of flavor but also a satisfying textural contrast that is sure to please any palate. It’s an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, providing a gourmet experience with every bite.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup cold water (additional as needed)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6-8 boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Oil for frying
- Juice from 2 oranges
- Orange zest
- 5 tbsp sugar
- 5 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 4 tbsp cold water
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Step-by-step Directions
1. Preparing the Batter
Mix the flour, 2 tbsp cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Gradually add 1/3 cup of cold water and mix until the batter is smooth. Whisk in one egg to combine thoroughly. Add additional water if the batter is too thick, ensuring it is thin enough to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Frying the Chicken
Coat the chicken thigh pieces evenly in the batter. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, as indicated by a meat thermometer.
3. Making the Glaze
In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
4. Combining Chicken with Glaze
Add the fried chicken to the glaze in the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people and requires approximately 20 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes of cooking time.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This process helps maintain the crispy texture of the chicken.
- Avoid microwaving as it may soften the crust.
Conclusion
The Citrus-Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe is a fabulous way to inject a bit of zest into your dining routine. This dish not only offers a perfect blend of flavors, from the sweet and tangy glaze to the savory fried chicken but also presents a visually appealing meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe will undoubtedly elevate your culinary repertoire.
PrintCitrus-Glazed Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Description
Introducing Citrus-Glazed Chicken Thighs, a delightful recipe that marries the crispiness of fried chicken with the tangy sweetness of an orange glaze. This dish promises not only a burst of flavor but also a satisfying textural contrast that is sure to please any palate. It’s an ideal option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, providing a gourmet experience with every bite.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup cold water (additional as needed)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6–8 boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Oil for frying
- Juice from 2 oranges
- Orange zest
- 5 tbsp sugar
- 5 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 4 tbsp cold water
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Mix the flour, 2 tbsp cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Gradually add 1/3 cup of cold water and mix until the batter is smooth. Whisk in one egg to combine thoroughly. Add additional water if the batter is too thick, ensuring it is thin enough to coat the chicken evenly.
- Coat the chicken thigh pieces evenly in the batter. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, as indicated by a meat thermometer.
- In a separate saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Add the fried chicken to the glaze in the saucepan, tossing to coat evenly. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes