Description
Juicy chicken quarters roasted until tender and coated with a sweet and tangy maple orange glaze, making a comforting yet elegant main dish.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters (about 2.5 lb)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Arrange chicken quarters skin-side up in a baking dish and pour half of the glaze over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes, basting once halfway through.
- Meanwhile, pour the remaining glaze into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the simmering glaze until thickened.
- After 40 minutes, brush thickened glaze over chicken and return to oven for 10–15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is caramelized.
- Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crisp skin, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Fresh orange juice is recommended for best flavor.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American