Description

A vibrant and flavorful Cilantro Orange Chicken served with pre-made yellow rice and black beans. The chicken is marinated in a zesty orange and cilantro sauce, broiled to perfection for a tender and juicy bite with a golden, slightly caramelized exterior. Optional fresh fruit salsa with pineapple, mango, or avocado adds a refreshing twist to this easy and colorful dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade & Chicken

1/4 – 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, grated
Juice of 2 oranges (about 4–5 tablespoons) plus a bit of zest
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons avocado oil
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite sized pieces
Wood or metal skewers (optional)

Sides & Extras

One 8.8-ounce pouch pre-made yellow rice (or homemade equivalent)
One 14-ounce can refried or regular black beans
1–2 cups diced pineapple, mango, and/or avocado (optional, for salsa)

Instructions

Prepare skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning during broiling.
Preheat broiler and prepare pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Position an oven rack about 6 inches below the broiler element and turn the broiler on to heat.
Place chicken into bowl: Put the bite-sized chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl, ready for marination.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine cilantro, grated garlic, orange juice and zest, brown sugar, avocado oil, white vinegar, and salt to create the flavorful marinade.
Marinate chicken: Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and toss well to coat evenly. Reserve the remaining half for later use. Thread the chicken onto the soaked skewers or lay it directly on the prepared baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of extra salt onto the chicken for added seasoning.
Broil chicken: Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Cook the chicken for about 12 minutes or until it is cooked through and the exterior is golden and slightly caramelized.
Prepare fruit salsa (optional): Mix a small amount of the reserved sauce with the diced pineapple, mango, and/or avocado to create a fresh, vibrant salsa to accompany the chicken.
Finish and serve: Brush the broiled chicken with the reserved sauce for extra moisture and flavor. Serve hot alongside the yellow rice, black beans, and optional fruit salsa for a complete meal.

Notes

Soaking wooden skewers prior to broiling prevents them from burning in the oven.
If you prefer not to use skewers, simply spread the chicken pieces out evenly on the baking sheet.
Adjust the level of orange juice and brown sugar based on your preferred balance of citrus tang and sweetness.
The fruit salsa is optional but adds a refreshing, juicy contrast to the savory chicken and rice.
Pre-made yellow rice is a convenient shortcut, but homemade yellow rice works equally well.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American with Latin American influences

Keywords: cilantro orange chicken, broiled chicken, yellow rice, black beans, fruit salsa, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe