Vinegar Chicken with Oranges: A Deliciously Tangy Recipe to Try Today

Vinegar Chicken with Oranges is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. Imagine tender chicken marinated in a tangy vinegar sauce, complemented by the sweet and zesty notes of fresh oranges. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a unique twist on traditional chicken dishes. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, vinegar chicken has a rich history that showcases the art of balancing flavors, making it a beloved choice for many home cooks.

People adore Vinegar Chicken with Oranges for its incredible taste and texture. The combination of the juicy chicken and the citrusy marinade creates a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we explore this flavorful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color. 2. **Season the Chicken**: In a large bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix these spices well. Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the skin get crispy. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin as well for maximum flavor. 3. **Sear the Chicken**: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish, so don’t skip it! 4. **Flip the Chicken**: Once the skin is beautifully browned, flip the chicken thighs over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. At this point, you can turn off the heat and prepare the sauce.

Making the Vinegar and Orange Sauce

5. **Prepare the Sauce**: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, fresh orange juice, and honey until well combined. The honey will balance the acidity of the vinegar and add a touch of sweetness to the dish. 6. **Add the Sauce to the Skillet**: Pour the vinegar and orange mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon; these bits are packed with flavor! 7. **Add Orange Slices**: Arrange the orange slices on top of the chicken. This not only adds a beautiful presentation but also infuses the dish with even more citrus flavor as it cooks.

Cooking the Chicken

8. **Bake the Chicken**: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin should be crispy, and the sauce will reduce and thicken slightly during this time. 9. **Baste the Chicken**: Halfway through the cooking time, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (using oven mitts, of course!) and baste the chicken with the sauce using a spoon. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful. 10. **Check for Doneness**: After 25 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. If it’s not quite there, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Finishing Touches

11. **Rest the Chicken**: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and tender. 12. **Garnish and Serve**: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken thighs with the orange slices and a generous drizzle of the sauce from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

13. **Pairing Options**: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter option. 14. **Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. 15

Conclusion:

In summary, this Vinegar Chicken with Oranges recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance. The combination of tangy vinegar and sweet oranges creates a delightful balance that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a side of fluffy couscous or a vibrant green salad to complement the citrus notes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different citrus fruits like lemons or limes, or even add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra layer of freshness. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Vinegar Chicken with Oranges a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together!

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