Name: Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Tender and juicy); 1 tablespoon Olive oil (For greasing the baking dish); 1/2 cup Raw honey (Natural sweetness); 1/2 cup Freshly squeezed tangerine juice (Can substitute with fresh orange juice); 1/4 cup Low-sodium soy sauce (Can use tamari for gluten-free); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh is best); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

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The moment you take that first bite of tangerine and honey glazed chicken, the burst of flavors transforms an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary. Imagine the tender, juicy chicken, luxuriously coated in a sticky glaze that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. This dish came to life one evening when I was craving a simple yet special meal, and it’s become a go-to favorite ever since, whether for casual family dinners or festive gatherings.

As the aroma of tangerine juice and honey fills your kitchen, you can already sense the delight that awaits at the dinner table. This irresistible sticky chicken recipe is not only super easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your loved ones and indulge in a delightful culinary experience? Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe and elevate your dinner game!

Why is the Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.

Bursting with flavor: The luscious blend of sweet honey and tangy tangerine creates a glaze that’s truly addictive.

Versatile meal: This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or seasonal vegetables for a complete dinner experience. For a refreshing complement, consider serving it alongside a crisp Pomegranate Pear Salad.

Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful chicken, making it perfect for any gathering.

Leftover friendly: Enjoy delightful meals again the next day; just reheat and savor!

Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to infuse your dinner with flavor!

For the Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy, these are essential for the perfect glaze.
Olive oil – Use this for greasing your baking dish to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.

For the Glaze

Raw honey – This adds natural sweetness and helps create the sticky glaze; agave syrup can serve as a vegan alternative.
Freshly squeezed tangerine juice – Provides that sweet and tangy burst that makes this dish shine; if tangerines aren’t available, fresh oranges work beautifully, too.
Low-sodium soy sauce – Contributes that umami flavor to balance the sweetness of the honey; tamari is a great gluten-free substitution.
Garlic (minced) – Elevates the flavor profile of the glaze; fresh garlic is best, but powdered garlic can be used in a pinch.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for a well-rounded flavor.

How to Make Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken

Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Season the chicken: Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper, then place them into your prepared baking dish, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
Create the glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the raw honey, freshly squeezed tangerine juice, low-sodium soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined and it looks glossy.
Coat the chicken: Pour half of that luscious glaze over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor!
Bake to perfection: Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Don’t forget to baste with the remaining glaze halfway through for an extra sticky finish.
Broil for caramelization: As a finishing touch, broil the chicken for an additional minute to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color, then remove from the oven and drizzle with any leftover glaze.

Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and appearance.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken?

Elevate your dinner experience with perfect pairings that complement the sweet and tangy notes of the chicken.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Its delicate, fragrant grains soak up the luscious glaze, adding a comforting base to each bite.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of veggies like carrots and bell peppers, perfectly balancing the dish’s flavors.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette offers a delightful crunch and a refreshing contrast to the sticky chicken.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut enhances the tangerine glaze beautifully, creating an exotic touch to your meal.
Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery garlic bread makes a great accompaniment, perfect for mopping up any leftover glaze on your plate.

Imagine serving this with a bright glass of white wine or sparkling water, and you’ll have a feast that shines!

Pomegranate Pear Salad: The sweetness of pears and juicy pomegranate seeds create an enticing side, adding color and an exciting texture contrast.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a unique earthy flavor that beautifully complements the tangy chicken while providing a lovely pop of color.
Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate after this sweet and savory dish, a refreshing lemon sorbet makes for a delightful finish to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the glaze for up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully while saving time on prep. Just whisk together the honey, tangerine juice, soy sauce, and garlic, and coat the chicken before refrigerating it overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, and broil for a minute to achieve that coveted glaze finish. This method ensures your chicken remains juicy and flavorful, making mealtime hassle-free and delightful, just as it should be!

Expert Tips for the Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken

Marinate for flavor: Consider letting the chicken sit in the glaze for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to enhance its sweetness and tanginess.
Watch the broiler: When broiling, keep an eye on the chicken to avoid burning. You’re looking for a delightful golden-brown finish.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, always check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) without being overcooked.
Balance the glaze: If the glaze is too sweet for your taste, a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt can create the perfect balance.
Explore variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Different citrus fruits or adding spices like ginger can elevate the flavor profile of this irresistible sticky tangerine and honey glazed chicken recipe.

How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This tangy delight retains its flavor and moisture, making it a great option for quick meals.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without loss of flavor.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, drizzling with extra tangerine glaze to restore its sticky texture.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and marinate the chicken, refrigerating for up to 1 day before cooking for an even deeper flavor in your irresistible sticky tangerine and honey glazed chicken.

Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative—these variations will elevate your dish to new heights!

Citrus Swap: Use fresh orange or mandarin juice instead of tangerine for a different citrusy twist. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile to the table. A small change can refresh your favorite recipe!
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of ginger or red pepper flakes to the glaze for an exciting heat that perfectly complements the sweetness. Just a pinch can awaken the palate, making your dish even more memorable.
Herbal Freshness: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a burst of color and flavor. The herbal notes will add a refreshing touch that brightens each bite.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts such as cashews or almonds on top before serving for added texture and crunch. This surprise element will enchant your guests while providing a hearty contrast to the tender chicken.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced pineapple or mango into the baking dish for a delightful addition of sweetness and a tropical vibe. The fruit will caramelize beautifully alongside the chicken, making your dish more vibrant.
Vegan-Friendly: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and use agave syrup instead of honey to create a vegan-friendly version. It offers the same delicious sticky glaze while accommodating different dietary preferences.
Asian Flair: Add a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil to the glaze for an Asian-inspired twist that enhances its umami flavor. This gives your dish a deeper dimension that’s sure to impress!
Smoky Flavor: Substitute half of the soy sauce with smoked soy sauce or liquid smoke to infuse your dish with a tantalizing, smoky depth. This twist adds a fantastic note that takes the flavor up a notch!

Irresistible Sticky Tangerine and Honey Glazed Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe tangerines for the glaze?
Absolutely! When selecting tangerines, look for ones that are slightly firm, but yield gently to pressure, indicating juiciness. The skin should be bright, with a smooth texture, free of dark spots or blemishes. A sweet aroma is also a good sign of ripeness!

What is the best way to store leftover chicken?
Very straightforward! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its moisture and flavor, allow it to cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Can I freeze the tangerine and honey glazed chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best consumed within 3 months, ensuring you retain that wonderful flavor.

What should I do if the glaze is too thick?
If you find your glaze is overly thick, you can thin it out by adding a tablespoon of warm water or some extra tangerine juice. Mix well, and it will be much easier to drizzle over your chicken, still giving it that irresistible sticky finish.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to cater to different dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the low-sodium soy sauce with tamari. If you’re concerned about the sugar content, using a sugar-free syrup is also an alternative. Always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet specific dietary restrictions.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Most certainly! You can prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. Marinating the chicken in this mixture for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, will also enhance its flavor and tenderness, making for an even more delightful dinner experience!