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Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja)

Colombian · Dinner · Easy

Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja)

Total
1 hr 15 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
4
Calories
490
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Chicken legs simmer with orange juice, sweet pepper and brown sugar until the sauce turns glossy and the meat is tender.

A gentle braise keeps Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja) juicy while citrus and brown sugar settle into a rounded sauce. Cilantro added at the end brings a fresh note against the rich pan juices.

Use whole chicken leg quarters rather than small drumsticks for the portions shown. Fresh orange juice gives a brighter finish, and an uncovered reduction lets you adjust the sauce after the meat is cooked.

SweetTangySavoryOne PotNut-freeEgg-freeHigh-protein

Method

  1. Season the chicken leg quarters with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil and butter in a wide heavy pot over medium heat. Brown the chicken for per side and transfer to a plate.

  2. Cook the onion and red bell pepper in the same pot for until softened. Add the garlic for , then pour in the chicken broth and orange juice and scrape the base.

  3. Stir in the brown sugar and return the chicken. Cover and simmer over low heat for until the thickest part reaches 165°F and the meat is tender.

  4. Transfer the chicken to a platter. Simmer the sauce uncovered for until lightly thickened, spoon over the meat and scatter with cilantro.

Forkue tips

  • If the oranges are especially sweet, start with half the brown sugar and taste the sauce before adding the remainder.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate chicken in its sauce for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat covered over low heat, spooning sauce over the meat as it warms.

Kitchen gear

Wide heavy potTop picks on AmazonInstant read thermometerTop picks on Amazon
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Nutrition per serving, estimated

490Calories
40gProtein
15gCarbs
30gFat

Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja): FAQ

Can I use boneless thighs?

Yes. They will cook faster, so begin checking the center well before the end of the braising time and reduce the sauce separately.

Why is the sauce thin?

A covered braise retains moisture. Lift out the cooked chicken and reduce the liquid uncovered until it lightly coats a spoon.

How do I store and reheat Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja)?

Refrigerate chicken in its sauce for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat covered over low heat, spooning sauce over the meat as it warms.

How long does Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja) take?

About 1 hr 15 min in total: 15 min prep and 1 hr cooking.

What do I need to make Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja)?

The key ingredients are chicken leg quarters, butter, onion, red bell pepper, garlic and chicken broth, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Chicken in Orange Sauce (Pollo a la Naranja)?

If the oranges are especially sweet, start with half the brown sugar and taste the sauce before adding the remainder.

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