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reasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper on both sides. You can use skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference for white or dark meat.
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Step 2: Make the Tangerine Marinade
In a bowl, combine the juice of 2 tangerines (or ½ cup of tangerine juice), 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until the marinade is well combined and the honey is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the tangerine marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor). The longer the chicken marinates, the more it will absorb the sweet and savory tangerine glaze.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
For extra flavor and a crisp exterior, you can sear the chicken breasts in a hot pan before baking them. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until the chicken is browned. This step is optional, but it helps to lock in the juices and adds a nice texture to the chicken.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the marinated (and optionally seared) chicken breasts to a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken to keep it moist while baking.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you have time, baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through the cooking process for extra moisture and flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. If you like, you can also sprinkle some tangerine zest over the chicken for added citrus fragrance, or top it with sesame seeds for a little crunch.
Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: To make the dish even more complete, add some roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes to the baking dish during the last 20 minutes of baking. They’ll soak up the tangerine marinade, creating a flavorful side dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy-sweet twist.
- Tangerine Glaze: After baking the chicken, you can thicken the marinade by simmering it on the stove for 5-10 minutes to create a glaze. Drizzle this over the chicken for extra richness.
- Grilled Version: For a smoky flavor, marinate the chicken and then grill it instead of baking. This will add another layer of depth to the dish.
Final Thoughts
Baked Tangerine Chicken is a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. With its bright citrus notes, rich marinade, and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress your guests or make for a delightful family dinner. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that you can easily customize to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Whether you’re craving something fresh and light or a comforting chicken dinner with a twist, this dish will not disappoint. Give it a try, and prepare to enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal that’s bursting with zesty goodness!
