1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispy skin.
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil. Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Place the lemon wedges and thyme (or rosemary) inside the chicken cavity.
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the chicken for even roasting.
2. Roast the Chicken:
- Place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring an even roast.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Baste the chicken occasionally with the juices that collect in the pan to keep it moist.
3. Make the Orange Glaze:
- While the chicken is roasting, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water until smooth. Add this slurry to the simmering glaze, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the orange zest. Set aside.
4. Glaze the Chicken:
- About 15 minutes before the chicken is done, brush the orange glaze generously over the chicken.
- Return the chicken to the oven and continue roasting until the glaze is caramelized and the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful roast.
- Carve the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter.
- Drizzle additional orange glaze over the sliced chicken or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and orange slices if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure Even Cooking: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This prevents overcooking and ensures the chicken remains juicy.
- Glaze Application: For an extra glossy finish, apply a thin layer of glaze during the last 15 minutes of roasting.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest before carving to maintain its juiciness and flavor.
Conclusion
This Roast Chicken with Orange Glaze is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy. The combination of succulent roast chicken with a zesty orange glaze creates a memorable dining experience that’s perfect for any special occasion or a delightful family dinner. Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish, and let it become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
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