Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas Chicken: 7 Festive Tips

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Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas is a festive dish that brings a delightful mix of flavors to your holiday table. This recipe features tender chicken thighs and drumsticks enveloped in a rich, orange-spiced glaze that captivates the senses. The combination of sweet and savory notes makes it an irresistible centerpiece for holiday gatherings or special occasions. With its aromatic spices and vibrant presentation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

There are countless reasons to adore this Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas recipe. First, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory that appeals to everyone. Second, it’s simpler and more affordable than a traditional holiday ham, making it a practical choice. Third, the rich flavors of the sticky orange glaze are sure to impress your guests. Fourth, it’s a sticky orange glazed holiday dish that can be prepared ahead of time. Fifth, it pairs beautifully with various sides, from roasted vegetables to fluffy mashed potatoes. Lastly, it is a delicious orange glazed Christmas idea that is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

Gather these items:

1.2 kg / 2.4 lb chicken thighs, skin on, bone in
800g / 1.6 lb chicken drumsticks (or more thighs)
5 tsp orange zest (from 2 oranges)
1/2 cup orange juice (from the zested oranges)
1/4 cup cider vinegar (or substitute white wine, sherry, or champagne vinegar)
1/2 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp allspice
1 tsp ground ginger
2 whole star anise
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 oranges, cut into wedges or halved then sliced
Good quality leafy greens such as endive or watercress (for the bed)
Orange zest curls (for decoration)

How to Make Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs and drumsticks.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, ground cinnamon, allspice, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Place the chicken pieces in a large container or bowl and pour over the glaze mixture, adding the whole star anise. Toss to coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a roasting tray.
Step 5: Arrange the marinated chicken pieces skin-side up in the tray. Pour over any remaining marinade and add the orange wedges among the chicken.
Step 6: Roast in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
Step 7: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the skin is caramelized.
Step 8: Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Serve on a bed of leafy greens, garnished with orange zest curls and roasted orange slices.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to marinate the chicken for a few hours to deepen the flavors.
Basting the chicken while roasting helps to achieve a sticky glaze.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.
Consider using a mix of chicken parts for varied textures and flavors.
For a twist, try adding a hint of chili powder for a spicy kick.

Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas Chicken: 7 Festive Tips - Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts for a festive touch. You can also serve it with a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. For an easy orange glaze for holiday desserts, drizzle extra glaze over a simple vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.

How to Store and Reheat Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the oven to keep the skin crispy, heating it at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors of the homemade sticky orange glaze to shine through again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

What’s the secret to perfect Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas?

The key to a perfect sticky orange glazed Christmas is in the marination. Allowing the chicken to soak in the citrus sticky glaze for several hours enhances the flavor and tenderness, making every bite irresistible.

Can I make Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop further, making it an ideal easy sticky orange glazed recipe for busy holiday schedules.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that the chicken is not overcrowded in the roasting pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Basting regularly helps achieve that perfect sticky finish, while using a meat thermometer ensures that the chicken is thoroughly cooked without drying out.

Variations of Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas You Can Try

There are numerous variations you can experiment with. For a twist, consider using duck or pork instead of chicken for a different flavor profile. You can also create a festive sticky orange sauce recipe by adding cranberries to the glaze for a tart flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different citrus fruits like blood oranges or grapefruits can add unique flavors to your dish.