Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken with Steamed Broccoli

This Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken with Steamed Broccoli is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that combines the sweetness of orange with the savory richness of chicken. The glaze, made with fresh orange juice, honey, and a touch of ginger, coats the chicken perfectly, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tangy. Paired with tender steamed broccoli, this dish is a healthy, quick, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

The orange glaze gives the chicken a beautiful, citrusy sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the savory flavors of the chicken itself. The addition of ginger adds a mild spice that complements the citrus. The steamed broccoli provides a crisp, nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with the rich, zesty chicken. This meal is not only full of flavor but also light and healthy, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients for Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken with Steamed Broccoli:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets

• Zest of 1 orange (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Orange Glaze:

In a small saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Steam the Broccoli:

While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli florets. You can do this by placing the broccoli in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. Alternatively, you can microwave the broccoli in a covered dish with a little water for about 4-5 minutes.

4. Glaze the Chicken:

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange glaze over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re coated evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the glaze for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve:

To serve, place the steamed broccoli on each plate and top with a glazed chicken breast. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the chicken. Optionally, garnish with orange zest and fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

Tips for Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange glaze for a spicy twist.

• Protein Options: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result or try this recipe with fish like salmon or tilapia.

• Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have cilantro, try garnishing with fresh basil or parsley for a different flavor.

Final Thoughts:

Zesty Orange Glazed Chicken with Steamed Broccoli is a deliciously fresh, light, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of citrusy orange glaze and savory chicken, paired with crisp broccoli, creates a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Easy to make and full of healthy ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your weekly rotation.