Irresistibly Juicy Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken Recipe

Posted on February 13, 2026

The first bite of Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken has a way of transforming an ordinary evening into something truly special. Picture the golden-brown skin, glistening in a luscious glaze of sweet orange marmalade and bright lemon juice. As the chicken roasts, the enticing aroma wafts through your home, comforting and inviting, calling everyone to gather around the table. This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about bringing together family and friends for moments that matter.

I created this recipe for those moments when fast food just won’t cut it, and the desire for a delicious homemade meal beckons. With its perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, this roast chicken stands out as a versatile centerpiece for any occasion—be it a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration. Join me in discovering how to master this delightful dish, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning guests!

Why is Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The harmonious blend of sweet orange marmalade and zesty lemon juice creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Crispy Skin: With the right roasting techniques, you’ll achieve that perfect golden-brown, crispy skin that contrasts wonderfully with the tender, juicy meat.

Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to spend more quality moments with family while the chicken roasts to perfection.

Versatile Dish: Whether paired with roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or creamy garlic mashed potatoes, this roast chicken complements a wide array of sides for a complete meal.

Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners, it’s a dish that transforms a simple meal into a memorable feast—perfect for any occasion, especially when you want to impress!

Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• 4-pound chicken (cut in half and cleaned) – Fresh chicken is key for maximizing flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps to keep the chicken moist and skin crispy; any neutral oil works as a substitute.

For the Glaze
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade – Provides sweetness and caramelization; apricot jam is a great alternative for a different taste.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth; can be swapped with soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice – Brightens the citrus flavor; bottled juice can be used if needed.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Adds acidity and balances the sweetness; use more orange juice if fresh lemons aren’t available.

For Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the chicken beautifully; fresh thyme can be used in larger amounts.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – This herb enhances flavor; feel free to replace it with Italian seasoning.
• 2 teaspoons salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your taste.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of heat; modify to your liking.

For Aromatics and Roasting
• 1 large shallot (thinly sliced) – Builds a flavor base; onions can be used as a substitute.
• 2 oranges (cut into slices) – Roasted beneath the chicken for flavor and decoration; other citrus fruits can be used as well.
• 1 lemon (cut into slices) – Similar function to oranges; feel free to use more orange slices if desired.

How to Make Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a crispy skin that everyone will love. This pivotal step creates the ideal roasting environment!
Prepare marinade: In a bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will elevate your chicken to new heights.
Marinate chicken: Place the chicken halves in a dish, skin-side up, and generously coat them with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Set up the pan: Scatter the sliced shallots, orange, and lemon in the bottom of the roasting pan. This citrus bed will infuse the chicken with delightful flavors as it roasts.
Roast chicken: Position the marinated chicken on top of the citrus slices and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Remember to baste every 20 minutes for that extra juicy goodness!
Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven, cover it with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken?

Let’s transform your delightful roast chicken into a complete meal, filled with colors, flavors, and textures that dance on the plate.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The richness of buttery mashed potatoes complements the tangy glaze perfectly, providing a cozy contrast to the juicy chicken.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, their natural sweetness alongside the citrus notes elevates the overall meal experience.
Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad topped with citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the savory elements of the chicken.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their caramelized sweetness mirrors the glaze on the chicken, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is undeniably comforting.
Quinoa Pilaf: Light yet packed with nutrients, the nutty flavor of quinoa enhances the citrusy notes of the chicken while providing a pleasing texture.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy and flavorful, herbed couscous brings a delightful chewiness to the table, making it a perfect bed for the roast chicken.
Sparkling Citrus Lemonade: A zesty, bubbly lemonade is a wonderful drink pairing that mirrors the citrus flavors, making each bite of chicken pop.
Lemon Tart: For dessert, a tart lemon dessert offers a perfect sweet finish, complementing the citrus elements of the roast chicken and leaving everyone with a smile.

How to Store and Freeze Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken

Fridge: Store your leftover Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will keep it fresh and ready to enjoy!

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: When reheating, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through, ensuring it remains moist.

Thawing: To thaw frozen chicken safely, move it to the fridge for 24 hours before reheating. This maintains the best texture and taste.

Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutions to put your personal spin on this lovely dish!

Gluten-Free: Substitute Worcestershire sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free friendly option.
Herb-Enhanced: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or parsley to the marinade for an aromatic lift that will make your chicken sing.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that perfectly complements the sweet citrus glaze.
Honey Gold: Swap out orange marmalade for honey for a richer, floral sweetness that still pairs wonderfully with citrus flavors.
Whole Chicken: Use a whole chicken instead of halves for a beautiful presentation, adjusting roasting time to ensure it cooks through.
Zesty Grapefruit: Replace some of the oranges with grapefruit slices; their slight bitterness paired with the sweetness creates a divine complexity.
Crispy Skin Lover: For super crispy skin, try drying the chicken skin thoroughly before marinating, ensuring it hits the hot oven at its best.
Vegetarian Option: Instead of chicken, use firm tofu marinated in the same citrus glaze and baked until golden for a delightful plant-based alternative.

Expert Tips for Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight significantly enhances its flavor; don’t rush this critical step for the best results.

• Basting Matters: While basting every 20 minutes helps keep the chicken juicy, if you’re pressed for time, prioritize the first basting; it still makes a difference.

• Use a Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out, always check the internal temperature reaching 165°F (75°C).

• Crispy Skin Trick: For that extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the final 5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!

• Citrus Variety: Experiment with adding different citrus fruits like grapefruit to the marinade for a fun twist on the classic Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken.

Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my chicken is fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting a chicken, look for a clean, pink color without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken should feel firm and moist but not slimy. It’s best to avoid any packaging that has tears or leaks.

How should I store leftover Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken?
The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it up, as this helps maintain freshness and flavor!

Can I freeze Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken?
Yes! For freezing, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an aluminum foil wrap or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

What can I do if the chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it may be due to uneven heat distribution in your oven. Rotate the roasting pan halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. Also, using a meat thermometer is key; check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be aware of the Worcestershire sauce, which contains anchovies. You can substitute it with soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Also, if you’re serving your meal to pets, it’s best to avoid giving them any chicken seasoned with the glaze, as some ingredients may not be suitable for their diets.

How long should I let the chicken rest before carving?
Let the chicken rest covered with foil for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This resting period allows time for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy!

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