Orange and Almond Chicken

Orange and almond chicken is a dish that combines sweet and citrus flavors, creating a perfect marriage for an exotic touch to dinner. This recipe also lends itself to an Italian twist, for example by adding a sprinkle of aromatic herbs like rosemary or serving it with a side of grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 2 untreated oranges
  • 1 shallot
  • 100 g of almond flakes
  • 100 ml of chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • (Optional) aromatic herbs such as rosemary or thyme

Preparation

  1. Begin by grating the zest of one orange and squeezing its juice.

  2. Finely chop the shallot and gently sauté it in a pan with two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.

  3. Add the chicken to the pan, browning it well on both sides. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  4. Once the chicken has colored, add the orange juice and grated zest.

  5. Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, turning the chicken breasts occasionally to flavor them evenly.

  6. In the meantime, toast the almond flakes in a non-stick pan without adding fats until they become golden and fragrant.

  7. Add the chicken broth to the chicken and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce has slightly reduced. If you like aromatic herbs, this is the time to add them to infuse the sauce.

  8. Before serving, sprinkle with the toasted almonds for a pleasant crunch and an even richer taste.

Curiosity

This dish has influences from Chinese cuisine, particularly the famous orange duck, and is often interpreted with local variations according to traditions and tastes. In Italy, adding aromatic herbs like rosemary is not unusual and helps balance the sweetness of the orange.

Serve the orange and almond chicken with a light side dish, such as fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your meal!