Grandma’s Orange Chicken: A Classic Comfort Dish

Grandma’s Orange Chicken is a timeless, home-cooked recipe full of rich, comforting flavors. The sweet and savory balance of the dish, paired with the slow-cooked aroma of orange, onion, and garlic, creates a mouthwatering meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This old-fashioned version stands apart from the popular Chinese-style orange chicken, offering something more rustic and rooted in tradition.

While the Chinese variation often uses boneless chicken breast in a sticky, deep-fried coating, Grandma’s Orange Chicken is all about slow cooking and infusing deep flavor into every bite. Bone-in chicken pieces—especially thighs—are perfect for this dish because they’re naturally juicy and absorb the citrusy sauce beautifully.

The secret to its irresistible flavor lies in cooking the chicken directly in fresh orange juice. A base of sautéed onion and garlic gives the sauce a rich depth, and the final texture can be easily adjusted: a bit of broth will thin it out, while cornstarch can be used to thicken it up.

✅ Tips for the Best Result:

• Use sweet, in-season oranges for the brightest flavor.
• Opt for high-quality, free-range chicken for the best texture and taste.
• Bone-in thighs are preferred for juiciness, but drumsticks or bone-in breasts also work well.

We love serving this dish with crispy French fries, white rice, or a fresh green salad, and finishing with a few orange slices for a beautiful, citrusy garnish.

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Grandma’s Orange Chicken Recipe

🕒 Preparation Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 1 hour
⏱ Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Servings: 2
🍽 Course: Main
🌍 Cuisine: American
🔥 Calories per Serving: 733 kcal

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Ingredients:

• 400 g fresh oranges (to yield 350 ml juice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 100 g onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced or crushed
• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (approx. 700 g)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 60 ml white wine or dry sherry
• 1 tbsp butter

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Instructions: How to Make Grandma’s Orange Chicken

1. Juice the Oranges
   Wash and squeeze the oranges until you get about 350 ml of juice. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Brown the Chicken
   Push the onion to one side of the pan. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook over medium-high heat for 10 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
4. Deglaze with Wine
   Sprinkle the oregano over the chicken. Pour in the wine or sherry and let it simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add Orange Juice and Simmer
   Pour in the reserved orange juice and add the butter. Continue cooking, uncovered, for 40 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through. The sauce will thicken slightly and the chicken will become tender and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve immediately, garnished with fresh orange slices if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, salad, or fries.

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Quick Recipe Summary:

• Juice fresh oranges (350 ml)
• Sauté onion and garlic
• Brown seasoned chicken thighs
• Add oregano and wine, let reduce
• Pour in orange juice, add butter, and cook for 40 minutes
• Serve warm with your favorite side

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This dish is a true family favorite, passed down through generations. Simple ingredients, slow cooking, and a touch of citrusy love—that’s what makes Grandma’s Orange Chicken so unforgettable.