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Maple Orange Glazed Chicken: Sweet & Savory Dinner

Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces Chicken leg quarters (bone-in, skin-on) Pat completely dry with paper towels
  • 1/2 cup Pure maple syrup Grade A or B
  • 1/2 cup Fresh orange juice Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp Orange zest From about 1 large orange
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce Or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 4 sprigs Fresh thyme Plus extra for garnish
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 orange Orange slices For garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  • Pat the chicken leg quarters very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy skin. Season liberally on all sides with the salt and black pepper.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, fresh orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
  • Place the chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Pour approximately half of the glaze mixture over the chicken, ensuring the pieces are well coated.
  • Arrange the fresh thyme sprigs around and on top of the chicken.
  • Roast in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. Every 15 minutes, open the oven and baste the chicken generously with the pan juices and the remaining reserved glaze.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
  • For extra color, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent the sugary glaze from burning.
  • Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh orange slices and extra thyme before serving.