Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a culinary masterpiece with this sensational Orange Rosemary Marinade Chicken! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright, zesty notes of orange and the aromatic, earthy essence of fresh rosemary. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that will transport your senses to a gourmet kitchen experience right in the comfort of your own home.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 1/2 cup of orange juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the orange juice and olive oil. Whisk them together until they are well blended.
- Add the minced garlic to the bowl and stir to combine. This will infuse the marinade with a rich garlic flavor.
- Strip the leaves from the rosemary sprigs and chop them finely. Add the chopped rosemary to the marinade mixture.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste. Be generous with the seasoning as it will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If using an oven, line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- If grilling, place the chicken thighs directly on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is golden brown.
- If baking, arrange the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the Orange Rosemary Marinade Chicken hot, garnished with additional fresh rosemary if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Marination Magic: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for the full 2 hours if possible. The longer it sits, the more the citrus and herb flavors will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees both safety and perfect juiciness.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh rosemary if you can. The difference in flavor between fresh and dried herbs is remarkable and will elevate your dish significantly.
- Grilling vs. Baking: While both methods work wonderfully, grilling will give you those beautiful char marks and a slightly smoky flavor that complements the citrus perfectly.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this chicken with a light salad or roasted vegetables to complete your meal. A crisp white wine can also complement the citrus and herb notes beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 130mg
