A Festive Treat: Sticky Glazed Christmas Chicken Recipe

The holiday season is a time for gathering, sharing, and feasting with loved ones. What better way to celebrate than with a show-stopping main dish that’s bursting with festive flavours? If you’re looking for a dish that’s easier and more affordable than a traditional Christmas ham, Sticky Glazed Christmas Chicken might just steal the spotlight at your table this year.

This recipe combines the warm, nostalgic flavours of cinnamon, allspice, and ginger with the sweetness of brown sugar and the zest of oranges. The result? A sticky, caramelized chicken dish that’s juicy, tender, and tastes just like Christmas. Let’s dive into how you can create this irresistible holiday treat.

Why Choose Sticky Glazed Christmas Chicken?

While Christmas ham often gets the limelight, this chicken recipe offers a delightful alternative. Here’s why it’s worth a try:

• Cost-effective: Chicken thighs and drumsticks are budget-friendly and easy to find.
• High glaze-to-meat ratio: Each bite is coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze.
• Simple preparation: Marinate, roast, and baste for a show-stopping main course.
• Perfect for all seasons: Although perfect for Christmas, this dish works year-round.

Ingredients for Festive Perfection

To infuse your chicken with those classic holiday flavours, you’ll need:

• Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks for maximum juiciness and caramelization.
• Orange zest and juice: Adds a citrusy brightness.
• Spices: Cinnamon, allspice, ginger, and star anise.
• Brown sugar: For that irresistible caramel glaze.
• Dijon mustard and vinegar: Balances the sweetness and adds depth.

Tip: For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to let those festive flavours penetrate deeply into the meat.

How to Make Sticky Glazed Christmas Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine orange zest, juice, spices, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces in a ziplock bag or non-reactive container. Let it sit for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Roast: Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F. Spread the marinated chicken on a lined baking tray and roast for 30 minutes.
4. Baste for Glaze: Continue roasting for 20 more minutes, basting the chicken with pan juices every 10 minutes to achieve that sticky, golden exterior.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the chicken on a platter with fresh greens and orange wedges for garnish. Your festive centrepiece is ready!

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Feast

Sticky Glazed Christmas Chicken pairs beautifully with light and refreshing sides. Consider serving it with a spring salad, or a hearty Bean Tabbouleh Salad. For a true holiday spread, add classic dishes like roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes.

For a dish as special as this, the quality of your ingredients matters. If you’re in Melbourne, look no further than Eastern Halal Butcher for fresh poultry in Melbourne. We at Eastern Halal pride ourselves on offering:

• Freshness: Ensuring every cut is of the highest quality.
• Variety: A wide selection of chicken cuts perfect for this recipe.
• Convenience: With online ordering and delivery options, planning your holiday feast has never been easier.

Check out our fresh poultry range today and ensure your Sticky Glazed Christmas Chicken is nothing short of perfect.