Grilled Orange Chicken with Orange Marmalde Barbque Sauce, paired with Broccoli Crunch Salad

As a real estate agent, I know that the key to a successful sale often lies in the details. The same can be said for cooking, where the right combination of flavors can turn a simple meal into a memorable feast. Today, I’m excited to share with you my signature dish: Orange Grilled Chicken with an Orange Marinade and Orange Marmalade Barbecue Sauce, paired with a fresh, homemade Broccoli Crunch Salad.

Orange Grilled Chicken with Orange Marinade

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• Zest of 1 orange
• Salt and pepper to taste

Orange Marmalade Barbecue Sauce:

• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Begin by whisking together the orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and orange zest in a bowl. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the marinade. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
3. For the barbecue sauce, combine the orange marmalade, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and chili flakes in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
4. Brush the grilled chicken with the orange marmalade barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Broccoli Crunch Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, blanched
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup bacon bits (optional)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli florets, red onion, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and bacon bits.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The combination of the tangy orange chicken and the crunchy, savory salad creates a symphony of flavors that’s sure to impress at any dinner party or family gathering. Just like finding the perfect home for a client, this dish is about bringing together the best elements to create something truly special.

Enjoy this delightful pairing, and may it bring the same joy and satisfaction as a successful close on a new home!

Bon Appétit!