Chicken with Orange and Almonds

Chicken with orange and almonds is a dish that combines sweet and citrusy flavors, creating a perfect pairing for a dinner with an exotic touch. This recipe also lends itself to an Italian touch, 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 sliced almonds
• 100 ml chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• (Optional) aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme

Preparation

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

2. Finely chop the shallot and sauté it gently 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 taken on color, add the orange juice and the grated zest.

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

6. Meanwhile, toast the almond slices in a non-stick pan without adding fat, 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 fully cooked and the sauce has slightly reduced. If you like aromatic herbs, this is the time to add them to flavor in the sauce.

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

Fun Facts

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

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