Citrus zest: Elevate your chicken with oranges this season

Meat with fruits isn't a popular pairing. Sometimes, it is considered elegant and sophisticated, often associated with festive dishes. However, it's quite simple to transform even an everyday dinner this way. At this time of year, it's worth focusing on citrus fruits.

Chicken is one of the most popular meats chosen. Despite its seemingly endless culinary possibilities, you might occasionally run short of ideas for preparing it. During such times, it's worth considering citrus fruits, particularly oranges, as it’s their season now. They add a touch of freshness, ensuring the meat doesn't turn out dry. For this chicken dish, serve with rice to make a delightful meal.

Some may initially be against such a combination, but you don’t need a large number of oranges to give the chicken a pleasant aroma. Adding citrus to the meat is not about creating a sauce; oranges are a delightful addition, providing a pleasant contrast of flavours. Oranges can be used for whole roasted chicken and when preparing it in pieces.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken leg quarters or 6 drumsticks,
• 2 oranges,
• a sprig of fresh rosemary,
• 2-3 cloves of garlic.

For the marinade:

• 4 tablespoons of olive oil or cooking oil,
• juice from half an orange,
• a teaspoon of mustard,
• half a teaspoon of honey,
• salt and pepper, and paprika to taste.

Instructions:

1. Squeeze the juice from half an orange, add the remaining marinade ingredients, and mix.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken. It's best to allow it to sit for about an hour.
3. Thoroughly wash the remaining oranges and cut them into thick slices.
4. Transfer the meat along with the marinade into an ovenproof dish. Place the garlic cloves next to it. Bake for 45 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius (Gas Mark 4).
5. Then add the orange slices and a sprig of rosemary.
6. Bake for an additional 35 minutes. Towards the end, you can use the grill function to give the chicken a nicely browned finish.