Description
Succulent citrus-glazed chicken thighs bring Mediterranean sunshine to dinner tables with zesty orange and lemon notes. Bold flavors mingle perfectly, promising a delightful meal that leaves you craving another bite of this tangy, caramelized poultry experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 6–8 boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 oranges (juice and zest)
Coating and Thickening Agents:
- ¾ cup flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for glaze)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Glaze and Seasoning:
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ⅓ cup cold water (additional as needed)
- 4 tablespoons cold water (for cornstarch mixture)
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare a seasoned flour mixture by combining flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl. Gradually incorporate cold water to create a smooth, fluid batter that will evenly coat the chicken thighs.
- Whisk an egg into the batter, ensuring complete integration and adjusting the consistency with additional water if necessary to achieve a light, flowing texture.
- Thoroughly dredge each chicken thigh piece in the prepared batter, making sure every surface is completely covered for a uniform coating.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan to the optimal temperature of 350°F, carefully maintaining consistent heat throughout the cooking process.
- Gently lower the battered chicken thighs into the hot oil, frying until they develop a golden-brown exterior and reach full internal doneness, using a meat thermometer to confirm proper cooking.
- While the chicken fries, create a vibrant citrus glaze by combining orange juice, fragrant zest, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger in a separate saucepan.
- Simmer the glaze ingredients over medium heat, stirring continuously to blend the flavors and prevent scorching.
- Incorporate a cornstarch mixture to thicken the glaze, adjusting seasonings to enhance the overall taste profile.
- Transfer the crispy fried chicken thighs directly into the prepared glaze, gently tossing to ensure each piece is thoroughly and evenly coated.
- Allow the chicken to simmer in the glaze for an additional 2-3 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and create a glossy, appetizing finish.
Notes
- Crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs get a tangy citrus makeover with this simple yet impressive recipe.
- Achieving the perfect batter consistency is key: aim for a thin, smooth coating that allows the chicken to crisp up beautifully.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy results every time.
- The homemade citrus glaze balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, transforming ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality dish.
- Fresh orange zest and juice are game-changers, bringing bright, vibrant notes that elevate the entire meal.
- Serve immediately after glazing to enjoy maximum crispiness and flavor intensity.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg