A sweet and savory harmony of maple syrup and fresh orange juice transforms simple chicken quarters into a show-stopping dish. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating crispy golden skin and juicy, flavorful meat that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe captures the best of sweet citrus and rich roast flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters recipe is the perfect blend of cozy and refreshing. The natural sweetness of maple syrup pairs wonderfully with the tang of fresh orange juice, while Dijon mustard and soy sauce add depth and balance. The glaze thickens as it bakes, coating the chicken with a luscious, sticky finish. It’s an easy yet impressive meal that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 chicken leg quarters
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
Fresh thyme sprigs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Orange slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the glaze from sticking.
2. Make the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, orange zest, and crushed red chili flakes until smooth and fragrant.
3. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
4. Coat and marinate: Arrange the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Pour the glaze evenly over the pieces, turning them to coat completely. Add thyme sprigs and orange slices for aroma and presentation. Let the chicken marinate for about 20 minutes if possible.
5. Roast the chicken: Place the dish in the oven and roast for 45–50 minutes, basting once or twice with the pan juices. The glaze should reduce and caramelize beautifully.
6. Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced.
7. Serve: Spoon the pan glaze over the chicken before serving and garnish with fresh thyme and orange slices.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time (optional): 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
• Spicy Version: Add extra red chili flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the glaze for a bolder kick.
• Citrus Swap: Use lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a sharper, more tangy flavor.
• Grill Option: Grill the chicken over medium heat instead of roasting for a smoky, charred finish.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Use the same glaze over roasted cauliflower or tofu for a delicious plant-based version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a spoonful of water or glaze to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of leg quarters?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 30–35 minutes since chicken breasts cook faster.

2. Can I substitute honey for maple syrup?

Yes, honey works well as a substitute, though it will have a slightly different flavor and thicker consistency.

3. Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Absolutely. You can make the glaze up to two days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just whisk before using.

4. Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with glaze.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a citrusy salad.

6. How do I make the glaze thicker?

Let the glaze simmer in a small saucepan for a few minutes before using to reduce and thicken it.

7. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

8. Can I use bottled orange juice?

Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. You may need to extend the roasting time slightly.

Conclusion

Maple Orange Glazed Chicken Quarters bring together the best of sweet and savory flavors in one beautiful, easy-to-make dish. The sticky glaze, infused with maple, citrus, and herbs, turns simple chicken into a flavorful masterpiece perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with rice, vegetables, or salad, this recipe is sure to impress with every bite.

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