marmalade chicken recipe

Written ByEmma Smyth Updated on
marmalade chicken recipe

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The Best marmalade chicken recipe

I love this marmalade chicken recipe because it’s one of those dishes that’s simple enough for a weeknight but still feels special. The sweet and tangy glaze from the orange marmalade pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, and it only takes about 30 minutes to make. My kids always ask for seconds, which is a win in my book—any meal that gets them excited without a fight is a keeper. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, with roasted veggies, or even on a sandwich the next day.

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What I appreciate most about this recipe is how balanced it is. The marmalade adds natural sweetness without being overpowering, and the soy sauce and garlic give it depth. It’s got protein from the chicken, and if you serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad, it’s a well-rounded meal. The leftovers reheat well too, which is always a bonus when you’re trying to meal prep or just avoid cooking every single night. It’s one of those recipes that never gets old, no matter how many times I make it.
Sweet and Tangy Marmalade Chicken

Sweet and Tangy Marmalade Chicken

4.9 from 1576 votes

A delightful fusion of savory and sweet, this marmalade chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs glazed with a sticky orange marmalade sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a burst of citrusy flavor.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Marmalade Sauce
  • 1/2 cup orange marmalade
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1 Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. 2 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. 3 In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. 4 Add orange marmalade, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Whisk together and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. 5 Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly with the marmalade sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. 6 Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice or roasted vegetables.

🔧Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0.5g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice to the sauce. You can also use chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Sweet and Tangy Marmalade Chicken Works

Marmalade chicken is one of those recipes I always keep in my back pocket because it’s simple, flavorful, and works for just about any occasion. The sweet-tart glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the chicken a glossy finish that looks impressive without requiring much effort, and the citrusy brightness keeps it from feeling too heavy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday spread, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that my family requests time and time again.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Tangy Marmalade Chicken

1. What type of marmalade works best for marmalade chicken?

The best marmalade for this recipe is a thick-cut orange marmalade with a balance of sweetness and bitterness. Seville orange marmalade is ideal because its tartness cuts through the richness of the chicken, but any high-quality orange marmalade will work. Avoid overly sweet or jelly-like marmalades, as they can make the sauce too sticky.

2. Can I make marmalade chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Marmalade chicken reheats well, making it a great make-ahead dish. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. The flavors often deepen after resting, so it may taste even better the next day.

3. What sides pair well with marmalade chicken?

Marmalade chicken pairs beautifully with sides that balance its sweet and savory flavors. Try serving it with: – Steamed jasmine rice or couscous to soak up the sauce. – Roasted or mashed potatoes for a heartier option. – Sautéed greens like spinach, kale, or green beans to add freshness. – A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for marmalade chicken because they stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking. Bone-in, skin-on thighs will add even more depth to the dish, but boneless, skinless thighs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time—thighs may take 5–10 minutes longer than breasts to cook through.

5. How do I prevent the marmalade sauce from burning?

Marmalade can burn quickly due to its high sugar content. To prevent this: – Cook the sauce over medium-low heat and stir frequently. – Add a splash of liquid (like chicken broth, water, or soy sauce) to thin it out if it gets too thick. – If using the oven, baste the chicken regularly to keep the sauce moist. – Remove the chicken from the pan once it’s cooked through, then reduce the sauce separately to avoid overcooking.

Hi, I’m Emma, the creator of Tasty Chicken Recipes, where I share my favorite chicken dishes and simple recipes anyone can make at home. I love experimenting with flavors and helping fellow food lovers cook delicious chicken meals with ease. 🍗✨

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