Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful Orange Cumin Roast Chicken recipe. Marrying the zesty freshness of orange with the earthy warmth of toasted cumin, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors, complemented by a gentle heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a surefire way to impress your family or guests. Here’s how to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 8 pieces of chicken (legs and thighs work great)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 5 sprigs of thyme
- 1 large navel orange, sliced
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 large purple onion, sliced crossways
- 1 tablespoon toasted cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for more spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the Cumin:
- In a small pan over medium heat, toast the cumin seeds until they become aromatic and slightly browned. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet or a roasting pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Saute the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the smashed garlic cloves, purple onion slices, and thyme sprigs. Sauté until the onions start to soften, about 3-5 minutes.
- Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken stock and fresh orange juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the toasted cumin seeds and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Roast:
- Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, arranging them among the onions and orange slices. Dot the top with butter. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Serve:
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors.
This Orange Cumin Roast Chicken not only promises a burst of flavor with every bite but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s sure to gather everyone around the table. Enjoy the perfect blend of citrusy, spicy, and savory in this easy yet elegant meal.