Description

Sweet, tangy, and full of zesty flair—this Cilantro Orange Chicken is marinated in a bright citrus-herb sauce, then broiled to golden perfection. Paired with rice, beans, and juicy tropical fruit, it’s a weeknight dinner that tastes like sunshine on a plate.

Ingredients

For the Cilantro Orange Sauce:
1/4 to 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro
2 garlic cloves, grated
Juice of 2 oranges (about 4 to 5 tablespoons)
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons avocado oil
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt

For the Chicken:
1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Wood or metal skewers (optional)

Optional for Serving:
1 pouch (8.8 oz) of yellow rice (store-bought or homemade)
1 can (14 oz) black beans or refried beans
1 to 2 cups diced pineapple, mango, or avocado

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Instructions

Prep the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes. Preheat your oven broiler and position a rack 6 inches from the heat. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cilantro, garlic, orange juice and zest, brown sugar, avocado oil, vinegar, and salt. Set aside half of the sauce for later use.
Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken pieces with the remaining half of the sauce in a bowl. Thread onto skewers or place directly on the lined baking sheet. Optionally sprinkle with a bit more salt.
Broil the Chicken
Broil for about 12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden on the edges.
Make a Tropical Salsa (Optional)
Mix some of the reserved sauce with diced pineapple, mango, or avocado for a fresh and juicy topping.
Serve
Brush the cooked chicken with the remaining sauce. Serve warm with yellow rice, beans, and fruit salsa if desired.

Notes

You can grill the chicken instead of broiling—just cook over medium-high heat until nicely charred and fully cooked.
The sauce also works great on shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian/seafood twist.
Adjust sweetness by using more or less brown sugar depending on your taste.
If making ahead, keep components separate and assemble just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Broil (or Grill)
Cuisine: Latin-Inspired / Fusion