Irresistibly Juicy Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken Recipe

This Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken recipe delivers an irresistible blend of flavors and transforms a simple meal into a memorable feast.

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Keyword chicken recipe, Citrus Glazed Roast Chicken, easy recipe, family meal, festive dish, Roast Chicken

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 1 15

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 55

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450kcal

4 pounds 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.

1/2 cup orange marmalade Provides sweetness and caramelization; apricot jam is a great alternative.
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.

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.

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

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.

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight, and consider experimenting with different citrus fruits like grapefruit for a twist on the recipe.