Orange Ginger Baked Chicken

These orange and ginger-seasoned chicken thighs are baked in a simple marinade. The zest from the juiciest oranges combined with a hint of spices and maple syrup blend nicely to create this easy-to-make, main course.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients:

  • 6 boneless chicken thighs (breast/legs may be substituted, but cooking time will vary)

Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large oranges, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Preparation: 

Preheat the oven to 375°F.  Combine orange juice and orange zest in a bowl with maple syrup and spices.  Mix and set aside.

Place chicken thighs in a 9” x 13” baking dish.  Sprinkle lightly with salt.  Pour the orange ginger sauce evenly over the chicken pieces.

Bake for 15-18 minutes basting during the process. Chicken is finished cooking when the internal temperature of 165°F, and no longer pink on the inside.  Sauce may also be reduced and used as a glaze if desired.