| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 13g | 3g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 2g | 42g | 1.2g |
If you’re anything like me, you relish the harmony of flavors that delicately dance on your taste buds whenever you satiate your appetite. The Grilled African Cherry Orange Chicken is an exquisite blend that does exactly just that. It’s a fruit-based recipe I fell in love with at first bite, an array of sample tastes from my dual heritage synthesized in a single dish.
A Taste of Two Worlds
Coming from a Nigerian family and being raised in the Southern United States, my palate has been fortunate to explore the unique fusion of Afro-Southern cuisines. The Grilled African Cherry Orange Chicken is my beloved attempt to capture the warmth of Southern cuisine, imbued with the distinct, invigorating flavors of West African dishes.
The signature Africana flair pops through the use of ingredients like African cherries and fresh orange zest. This, coupled with the familiar taste of honey-glazed grilled chicken—a quintessential southern comfort food—brings a new level of gastronomic adventure, making it reminiscent of classics like the West African Jollof and Southern Barbecue Chicken.
Nutrition Packed Delight
Apart from its impeccable blend of flavors, this recipe is a treasure trove of nutrients. Packed with high-quality protein from the chicken breasts and a hefty serving of vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh fruits, it’s an indulgence you don’t have to feel guilty about. Plus, the addition of aromatic spices like ginger and fresh garlic serves to boost the body’s immunity and digestive health [source]. Honey, a natural sweetener, not only adds to its unique flavor profile but comes with its own set of health benefits, such as its antioxidant properties [source].
If you’re in the mood for experimentation, this recipe pairs brilliantly with a myriad of side dishes. It takes delight to the next level when paired with classic Southern collard greens or a simple fresh garden salad. And, for the complete West African vibe, you can enjoy it with a warm bowl of Jollof rice or yam porridge – guaranteeing an unforgettable gastronomical experience.
Whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or simply wanting a hearty, healthful, and flavorful meal at the end of a long day, the Grilled African Cherry Orange Chicken recipe is worth a try! All you need is your kitchen and the love for culinary exploration.
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh African cherries, pitted and chopped
- 2 large oranges, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Rinse them under cool water and pat them dry with paper towels. After they are dry, season them with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Two
Next, create the marinade for the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chopped African cherries, the zest and juice of the two oranges, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground coriander, and additional salt and pepper if desired. Mix until well combined.
Step Three
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the marinade. Ensure each piece of chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours, or overnight if time allows.
Step Four
When you are ready to grill the chicken, heat your grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step Five
While the chicken is grilling, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat and then reduce to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened slightly.
Step Six
Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle the reduced marinade over the top of each chicken breast. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.
Step Seven
Enjoy your Grilled African Cherry Orange Chicken either on its own, with a side salad, or over a bed of steamed rice.
