Oven-roasted turkey thighs with orange sauce

Oven-Baked Turkey Thighs with Orange Sauce

Searching for a simple and delicious recipe for a family dinner, there's nothing more satisfying than oven-roasted turkey. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers an explosion of flavors thanks to the orange sauce that adds a touch of freshness. The turkey thighs become juicy and full of flavor, turning an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 turkey thighs
- juice of one orange (approximately 150 ml)
- 1 glass of white wine (approximately 250 ml)
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- fresh rosemary (or dried)
- fresh basil (or dried)
- fresh sage (or dried)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika

Recipe History
Turkey roasts have been cherished throughout history as festive dishes, being a staple on holiday tables. Associated with various occasions, from Christmas to Thanksgiving, turkey meat is recognized for its rich texture and delicate flavor. The orange sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast, enriching the meat's aroma and adding elegance to the dish.

Ingredient Preparation
To achieve the best results, make sure to use fresh turkey thighs. If you have time, let them come to room temperature before cooking. Freshly squeezed orange juice is essential to maintain the vibrant flavor, so avoid bottled juice. The white wine should be of good quality, as it will contribute to the complexity of the taste.

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, basil, and sage. This spice mix will give the thighs a rich and aromatic flavor.
3. Place the turkey thighs in a baking dish. Use a dish with higher edges, as we will add the sauce and don’t want it to spill.
4. Sprinkle the spice mix over the thighs, ensuring they are evenly covered.
5. Pour the orange juice and white wine into the dish, being careful not to wash off the spices from the meat. This mixture will create a delicious sauce during baking.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first part of the baking. This will allow the thighs to cook evenly and stay juicy.
7. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 1 hour.
8. After an hour, remove the aluminum foil and let the roast brown for the next 30 minutes. Turn the thighs halfway through to ensure even browning.
9. Check if the thighs are cooked by piercing them with a knife – the juice that comes out should be clear, with no traces of blood.

Serving and Sides
Once the turkey thighs are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat.

To complete the meal, we recommend serving the thighs with creamy mashed potatoes, which will absorb the delicious orange sauce. A fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes and a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar will add a note of freshness and balance the rich flavor of the meat.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the orange juice with pineapple or lemon juice, each bringing a distinct note to the dish. Additionally, adding vegetables like carrots or diced potatoes during baking will transform this dish into a complete meal.

Useful Tips
- Marinating the thighs in the spice mix and orange juice a few hours before cooking will enhance the flavor.
- If you want a crispier crust, you can bake the thighs at a higher temperature in the last 10-15 minutes.
- Turkey thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the sauce can be used to add flavor to other dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use turkey breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but turkey breast cooks faster and is easier to become dry. Reduce the baking time to about 1 hour.

2. Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Lemons or grapefruits can provide a different and interesting flavor.

3. What type of white wine should I use?
Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will complement the citrus flavors.

Nutritional Benefits
Turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in B vitamins and minerals like zinc and selenium. Oranges provide a boost of vitamin C, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain skin health.

Now that you’ve discovered this enticing recipe for oven-baked turkey thighs with orange sauce, all that’s left is to try it! You’ll be delighted by its flavors, which will turn an ordinary dinner into a feast of tastes. Enjoy every bite!