Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters

INTRODUCTION

Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters is a delightful dish that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors. Chicken quarters are juicy and tender, and when coated with the sweet maple orange glaze, they become a standout meal that everyone will love. This dish is simple to make, yet it feels special enough for gatherings or family dinners. The use of maple syrup and orange juice gives the chicken a unique taste that makes each bite delightful.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend meal. The combination of maple syrup and fresh orange juice creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors. You will enjoy the burst of sweetness balanced with a hint of acidity from the orange juice. It is also a one-pan dish, so cleanup is simple! Plus, this recipe is flexible—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Everyone in your family will love it, making it a recipe you will return to time and again.

HOW TO MAKE Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters

Making Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps. By following the directions carefully, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this dish, you will need:

• 1 large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)
• Oven

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 chicken quarters
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Zest of one orange

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, orange juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and orange zest.
3. Season the chicken quarters with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken quarters for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Pour the maple orange glaze over the chicken in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters!

HOW TO SERVE Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters

Serving Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters is simple. Place each chicken quarter on a plate and drizzle some extra glaze from the skillet over the top. You may serve this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The glaze keeps the chicken moist and adds a colorful touch to your plate. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor and color.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before storing. You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or in the oven until warm.

If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each quarter tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters pair well with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans.
• A light salad with citrus vinaigrette.
• Quinoa or brown rice to soak up the flavorful glaze.
• Sweet potato fries for a fun twist.

Feel free to mix and match your sides based on your family’s preferences.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to make this recipe your own. Here are some variations you might try:

• Instead of chicken quarters, use chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust cooking times as needed.
• Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor in your glaze.
• Spice it up by adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat.
• Replace maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness.

Experiment with these ideas and find your favorite version!

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the internal temperature.

2. What should I do if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or omit it entirely. The recipe will still taste great.

3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it.

4. What can I use if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
You can use any skillet to sear the chicken, and then transfer everything to a baking dish when it’s time to bake.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters

To save time, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in the maple orange glaze the night before and store it in the fridge. This will enhance the flavors even more.

Another option is to make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the steps to sear the chicken and bake it. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or meal prep for a special occasion.

Now you have everything you need to prepare Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!

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