Baked Orange-Caper Chicken

Let’s ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary! Today, we’re embarking on a culinary journey to the vibrant Mediterranean with a recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and brighten your day: Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Orange-Caper Sauce.

Imagine this: succulent bone-in chicken thighs roasted to perfection, bathed in a lusciously creamy sauce that bursts with the tangy sweetness of fresh oranges and the salty bite of capers. Each bite is a symphony of contrasting flavors, leaving you wanting more. And the best part? This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

So, gather your little sous chefs and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone wanting seconds!

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 orange, thinly sliced

Step 1: Prep for Perfection:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Golden Glow:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Step 3: The Citrusy Symphony:

Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the orange slices, nestled around the chicken.

Step 4: Creamy Dreamland:

Bring the mixture to a simmer and then transfer it to a baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, orange juice, capers, Dijon mustard, and cornstarch slurry (made by mixing the cornstarch with the cold water). Pour this creamy sauce over the chicken and orange slices.

Step 5: Baking Bliss:

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Garnish and Devour:

Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the chicken and orange slices with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Busy Mamas:

• Batch Cooking Superpower: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled, making it perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
• Prep Ahead Hero: Marinate the chicken thighs in the orange juice and Dijon mustard for added flavor before cooking.
• Leftover Love: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Kid-Friendly Tweaks: Serve the chicken with a side of honey for dipping.

This Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Orange-Caper Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-prepare dish that will impress your family and friends. So, get ready to experience the sunshine on a plate and enjoy every bite of this delicious and wholesome meal!