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Tangy vinegar chicken with barberries and orange recipe

Tangy vinegar chicken with barberries and orange is a delightful high-protein dish that beautifully balances savoury and tart flavours. The succulent chicken legs, seasoned with kosher salt, are wonderfully complemented by the sharpness of white wine vinegar and the sweetness of fresh orange. This recipe transforms humble ingredients like onion and garlic into a fragrant, mouth-watering meal that is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table.

Ideal for a comforting dinner, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also brimming with protein, making it a satisfying choice for those looking to boost their intake. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that is both nourishing and flavourful, ensuring everyone leaves the table feeling content.

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Ingredients for Tangy vinegar chicken with barberries and orange

  • 1350 g chicken legs, skin-on, bone-in (thighs and drumsticks) or a mix of thighs and drumsticks

  • kosher salt

  • 30 ml vegetable oil or other neutral oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • 75 g dried barberries or dried tart cherries, rinsed

  • 2.5 g ground turmeric

  • 1.25 g crushed red pepper flakes

  • 80 ml white wine vinegar

  • 1 medium orange, halved

How to make Tangy vinegar chicken with barberries and orange

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan) or 190°C (conventional).

  2. Pat the chicken dry with kitchen paper, then season all over with salt.

  3. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.

  4. Cook the chicken, skin side down, until golden brown underneath, about 7–10 minutes.

  5. Transfer the chicken to a plate, leaving any fat in the pan.

  6. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the fat to cool slightly for about 3 minutes.

  7. Return the pan to medium heat and add the onion and garlic.

  8. Cook, stirring often, and add a splash of water if needed to prevent the onion from browning too much, until softened and golden brown, about 6–8 minutes.

  9. Stir in the barberries, turmeric, and red pepper flakes, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

  10. Pour in the vinegar and 250 ml of water, season lightly with salt, and bring to a simmer.

  11. Arrange the chicken, skin side up, in the sauce, then nestle the orange halves, cut side down, around the chicken.

  12. Transfer the frying pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, until the sauce is reduced and the chicken is cooked through, about 30–35 minutes (or 20–25 minutes for separate pieces and drumsticks).

  13. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.

  14. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, then squeeze the juice from the orange halves on top.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jul 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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