Are you looking for a flavorful and easy-to-prepare chicken dish that will impress your family or guests without taking hours in the kitchen? Research shows that meals with citrus flavors are particularly appealing because they elevate the overall dining experience. Let me introduce you to the delightful Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters — a recipe that combines the robust sweetness of maple syrup with the zesty brightness of fresh orange juice. This dish guarantees a mouthwatering experience and will become a staple at your dinner table.
Ingredients Needed
To create the perfect Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 Chicken Quarters: The star of the dish! Moist and juicy, these cuts come from the thighs and drumsticks, ensuring a flavorful outcome.
- 1/2 Cup Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds rich flavor and a lovely glaze.
- 1/4 Cup Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It brightens the dish and complements the maple syrup beautifully.
- 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce: Essential for balancing sweetness with umami flavor.
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard: Adds a hint of tanginess that elevates the glaze’s flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essentials for seasoning. Freshly ground pepper enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds aromatic allure and depth of flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Lends a savory note to the dish.
Timing
The entire preparation and cooking of these Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters will take approximately 90 minutes. This is 20% less time compared to many marinated chicken recipes. Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
- Resting time: 5 minutes
How to Make Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-heated oven is crucial for crispy, golden skin!
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, orange juice, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The result will be a fragrant, glossy glaze filled with vibrant flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken quarters in a baking dish. Pour the maple orange glaze over them, ensuring they are well-coated for the ultimate flavor experience.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the dish to your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. To ensure that your chicken turns out crispy and flavorful, remember to baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through cooking.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and moist when served.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 4. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional profile per serving:
- Calories: ~370
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 10g
Incorporating Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters into your meal plan provides a well-rounded protein source, beneficial for muscle recovery and satiety.
Healthier Alternatives For Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters
To elevate the nutritional profile of this dish while still relishing its delightful flavor:
- Substitute lower-sodium soy sauce for traditional soy sauce.
- Use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Swap chicken quarters for skinless chicken thighs, reducing fat content while maintaining juiciness.
- Incorporate fruit bits (like orange zest) or veggies (like bell peppers or carrots) in the baking dish for added vitamins and fibers.
Serving Suggestions
The delicious Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters can be served alongside various sides—try fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top before serving can enhance the dish’s visual appeal and brightness.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Skipping the Resting Period: Don’t skip the resting time; it’s essential for juicy chicken.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat for even cooking.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t dry out; use a meat thermometer if necessary.
- Inadequate Basting: Basting halfway through is key to layering flavors!
Storing Tips For Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Now you’re ready to create a delectable dish that marries the sweet notes of maple with the zesty brilliance of orange! With simple ingredients and easy steps, these Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters are perfect for a weeknight meal or a special gathering. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and any personalization you’d love to add—your feedback is valuable!
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I replace the chicken quarters with?
You can use chicken breasts or thighs; however, cooking times may vary.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze 2-3 days ahead and store it in the fridge.
Is it safe to consume leftover chicken?
Yes, as long as it’s stored properly and consumed within 3-4 days.
Can I cook this dish in an air fryer?
Yes! Cooking in an air fryer could provide a beautiful crispy finish—about 25-30 minutes should suffice, but check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe! Feel free to explore similar mouthwatering entries on our blog.
Print
Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A flavor-packed chicken dish featuring the sweetness of maple syrup and the zesty brightness of fresh orange juice, perfect for impressing family or guests.
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Quarters
- 1/2 Cup Maple Syrup
- 1/4 Cup Orange Juice
- 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, orange juice, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken quarters in a baking dish and pour the maple orange glaze over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Transfer the dish to your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, basting halfway through.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Skipping the resting period can lead to dry chicken. Always preheat the oven for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: chicken, maple, orange, glazed, dinner, easy recipe