Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas Chicken: A Festive Delight

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Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas is a festive and flavorful dish featuring tender, bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks coated in a rich, orange-spiced glaze. The combination of orange zest, cider vinegar, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a deliciously sticky and aromatic coating. Perfect for holiday meals, this dish is easier and more affordable than traditional Christmas ham.

Why You’ll Love This Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

This Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas Recipe is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday table. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also offers several benefits:

Easy preparation with minimal fuss.
Perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors.
The vibrant color adds a festive touch.
Great for feeding a crowd (serves 6).
Can be marinated ahead of time for deeper flavors.
A gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a cozy family gathering, this Sticky Orange Glazed Holiday Dish is sure to impress!

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 together until smooth.
Step 3: Place the chicken pieces into a large container or bowl and pour over the glaze mixture, adding the whole star anise. Toss to coat thoroughly. Allow to 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 or baking dish.
Step 5: Arrange the marinated chicken pieces skin-side up in the tray. Pour over any remaining marinade and add the orange wedges. Roast for about 60 minutes, basting occasionally.
Step 6: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the skin is caramelized and sticky.
Step 7: Remove 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 Best Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

Keep these in mind:

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours.
Ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the glaze for best results.
Use fresh oranges for the best flavor in your Homemade Sticky Orange Glaze.
Don’t skip the basting step; it enhances the stickiness.

Best Ways to Serve Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

This dish shines when served with:

Roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
Fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious glaze.
As a filling for Orange Glazed Christmas Cookies for a sweet twist.

How to Store and Reheat Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

After enjoying this festive dish, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through. This makes it perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas

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

The secret lies in marinating the chicken long enough for the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is bursting with the rich, aromatic taste of the Festive Sticky Orange Glaze.

Can I make Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just remember to keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

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

To avoid dryness, ensure the chicken is not overcooked and baste often. Also, use a thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 75°C (165°F).

Variations of Sticky Orange Glazed Christmas You Can Try

Mix things up with these variations:

Substitute chicken with turkey for a Best Sticky Orange Glaze for Turkey.
Add a splash of soy sauce for a savory twist.
Try using the glaze on roasted vegetables for a delightful Orange Flavored Christmas Glaze.