Fancy a simple way to add zesty, savory flair to your meals? Orange pepper seasoning is your secret weapon for quick dinners and comfort food favorites. From roasted veggies to grilled proteins, these 24 recipes will inspire your kitchen creativity—let’s dive in and spice things up!
Grilled Chicken with Zesty Orange Pepper Rub
Dinner just got a whole lot brighter with this simple grilled chicken. You’ll love how the zesty orange pepper rub creates a caramelized crust while keeping the meat juicy inside. It’s perfect for weeknights or weekend barbecues.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– 2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the rub adhere better.
2. In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp orange zest, 2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder.
3. Rub 2 tbsp olive oil evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, pressing gently to make it stick.
5. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
6. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
7. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes.
8. Flip the chicken using tongs and cook for another 6-7 minutes.
9. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part—it should read 165°F.
10. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
You’ll notice the chicken has a slightly crispy exterior with tender, moist meat inside. The orange zest adds a bright citrus note that balances the peppery heat beautifully. Try serving it over a bed of greens or with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Spicy Orange Pepper Roasted Vegetables
Ready for a veggie side that packs a punch? This spicy orange pepper roasted vegetables dish is your new go-to for busy weeknights. You’ll love how the sweet citrus and kick of heat come together.
Ingredients
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots), chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
– 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure even roasting.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed vegetables, olive oil, orange zest, orange juice, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred at the edges.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Fresh out of the oven, these veggies have a tender-crisp texture with a delightful char. The spicy kick from the pepper flakes balances perfectly with the bright orange flavor. Try serving them over quinoa or as a topping for grilled chicken to make it a full meal.
Citrus-Infused Orange Pepper Shrimp Skewers
Tired of the same old shrimp recipes? You’re going to love these citrus-infused orange pepper shrimp skewers—they’re bursting with bright, zesty flavor and come together in no time for a perfect weeknight dinner or summer grilling session.
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
1. Soak 8 wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
3. Add 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
6. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked skewers, about 3-4 shrimp per skewer.
7. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
8. Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Perfectly grilled with a slight char, these skewers offer a juicy bite with a sweet and spicy kick from the orange and pepper blend. Serve them over a bed of cilantro-lime rice or alongside a crisp salad for a complete meal that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
Savory Orange Pepper and Herb-Rubbed Pork Chops
Ever had one of those days where you want something impressive but don’t want to fuss? These pork chops are your answer—they’re juicy, flavorful, and come together with minimal effort.
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in pork chops, 1 inch thick
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
2. In a small bowl, combine the orange zest, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, salt, and minced garlic.
3. Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
4. Press the herb and spice mixture onto both sides of the pork chops, coating them thoroughly.
5. Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
6. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot, about 2 minutes.
7. Place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for 4 minutes without moving them to develop a golden-brown crust.
8. Flip the pork chops using tongs and cook for another 4 minutes.
9. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 3–5 more minutes.
10. Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute the juices.
A perfect balance of zesty orange and earthy herbs makes these chops irresistibly aromatic. The crust is crisp while the inside stays tender and moist—try serving them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or with a simple arugula salad for a complete meal that feels special without the stress.
Orange Pepper Crusted Grilled Salmon
Vividly orange and bursting with zesty flavor, this grilled salmon is your new go-to summer dish. You’ll love how the pepper crust adds just the right kick while keeping things light and fresh. It’s perfect for those warm evenings when you want something impressive but easy.
Ingredients
– 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better crust formation.
2. In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp orange zest, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. Rub 2 tbsp olive oil evenly over both sides of each salmon fillet.
4. Press the orange-pepper mixture firmly onto the top side of each fillet to create a crust.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
6. Place the salmon fillets crust-side up on the grill and close the lid.
7. Grill for 5-6 minutes until the bottom develops grill marks and releases easily.
8. Carefully flip the salmon using a spatula and grill for another 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
9. While grilling, whisk together 1/4 cup orange juice and 1 tbsp honey in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
10. Brush the orange-honey glaze over the salmon during the last minute of grilling for extra flavor and shine.
11. Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Exceptionally flaky with a crisp, aromatic crust, this salmon delivers bright citrus notes balanced by subtle heat. Serve it over a bed of quinoa with grilled asparagus for a complete meal that feels both elegant and effortless.
Tangy Orange Pepper Chicken Wings
Craving something zesty and satisfying? These orange pepper chicken wings are your new go-to for game day or a cozy night in. They’re tangy, a bit spicy, and totally addictive.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
4. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade.
5. Let the wings marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 40 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through for even cooking.
8. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
9. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
10. Let the wings rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
The wings come out sticky and glossy with a perfect balance of sweet orange and sharp pepper heat. Serve them with celery sticks and a cool dip to cut through the tang, or pile them high for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Orange Pepper Marinated Tofu Stir-Fry
Hey, you know those days when you want something fresh and zesty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This orange pepper marinated tofu stir-fry is your answer—it’s vibrant, packed with flavor, and comes together in no time.
Ingredients
– 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp water
Instructions
1. Press the tofu for 15 minutes using a tofu press or by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy pan on top to remove excess water.
2. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
4. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated, and let sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
5. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
6. Remove the tofu from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
7. Cook the tofu in the skillet for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
8. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
9. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and onion, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
10. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
11. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry.
12. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the vegetables and bring to a simmer.
13. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
14. Return the cooked tofu to the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly, and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Zesty and satisfying, this stir-fry delivers a perfect balance of sweet orange and spicy pepper with a firm, chewy tofu texture. Try serving it over quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal, or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Savory Orange Pepper Beef Kebabs
Aren’t you craving something smoky, sweet, and totally grill-worthy? These savory orange pepper beef kebabs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. You’ll love how the citrusy marinade tenderizes the beef while adding a bright, zesty flavor.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 large orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp black pepper.
2. Add 1.5 lbs beef cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
4. Tip: Marinating in a resealable plastic bag makes cleanup easier and ensures all pieces are coated.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
6. Thread marinated beef cubes, 1-inch orange bell pepper pieces, and 1-inch red onion pieces alternately onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
7. Tip: Leave a small space between pieces to promote even cooking and char.
8. Place kebabs on the preheated grill and cook for 4 minutes.
9. Flip kebabs using tongs and grill for another 4 minutes.
10. Check for doneness; beef should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium.
11. Tip: Let kebabs rest for 3 minutes off the grill to allow juices to redistribute for tender meat.
12. Remove kebabs from skewers and serve immediately.
Mouthwatering and juicy, these kebabs boast a perfect balance of savory beef and sweet citrus notes. The peppers and onions add a slight crunch that complements the tender meat beautifully. Try serving them over fluffy rice or with a side of grilled corn for a complete summer meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Baked Orange Pepper and Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Sometimes you just need a healthier alternative to regular fries that still satisfies that crispy craving. These baked zucchini fries are packed with zesty orange and savory Parmesan flavor—perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the zucchinis into fry-shaped strips, about 1/2-inch thick and 3 inches long.
3. Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow bowl.
4. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until fully beaten.
5. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, orange zest, black pepper, and salt.
6. Dredge each zucchini strip in the flour, shaking off any excess.
7. Dip the floured zucchini into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off.
8. Coat the zucchini evenly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
9. Arrange the coated zucchini fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fries and lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Fantastically crispy on the outside and tender inside, these fries offer a bright citrus kick from the orange zest balanced by the salty Parmesan. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Hearty Orange Pepper and Garlic Lamb Chops
Let’s make something special tonight that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to pull off. You’re going to love how the bright citrus and savory garlic come together on these tender lamb chops.
Ingredients
– 8 lamb chops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 orange
– 1 red bell pepper
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
Instructions
1. Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
2. Zest the orange and squeeze its juice into a small bowl.
3. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and mince the garlic cloves.
4. Chop the fresh rosemary finely.
5. Season the lamb chops evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
7. Sear the lamb chops for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
8. Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet.
9. Sauté the pepper for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
10. Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
11. Pour in the orange zest and juice, scraping any browned bits from the pan.
12. Simmer the mixture for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
13. Spoon the sauce over the lamb chops and serve immediately.
The chops come out juicy with a crisp edge, while the orange pepper sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick that balances the rich lamb. Try serving them over creamy mashed potatoes or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Roasted Orange Pepper and Spice-Infused Nuts
Ready to spice up your snack game? You’ll love these roasted orange pepper and spice-infused nuts—they’re crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for munching anytime. Plus, they come together in no time with simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
Ingredients
– 2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and walnuts)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups mixed nuts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp orange zest, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
3. Toss the mixture thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until all nuts are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
4. Spread the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden brown and fragrant.
6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the nuts cool completely on the sheet for about 20 minutes to crisp up.
7. Transfer the cooled nuts to an airtight container for storage. Perfectly crunchy with a zesty kick from the orange zest and a warm spice blend, these nuts are ideal for snacking straight from the jar or sprinkling over salads for extra flavor.
Orange Pepper Accented Creamy Tomato Soup
Oh, you’re going to love this twist on classic tomato soup—it’s creamy with just the right hint of orange pepper to make it special. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you want something comforting but a bit fancy. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for 2 minutes until shimmering.
2. Add 1 diced medium onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add 1 tsp orange zest and 1 tsp black pepper, toasting for 30 seconds to release their aromas—this deepens the flavor.
5. Pour in 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes and 2 cups vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes to avoid splattering when blending.
8. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches for a creamier texture (tip: blend carefully to avoid hot spills).
9. Return the pureed soup to the pot over low heat and stir in 1 cup heavy cream until fully incorporated.
10. Add 1 tsp salt, simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors, and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
11. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Lusciously smooth and velvety, this soup balances the tangy tomatoes with a subtle citrus kick from the orange pepper. For a fun twist, top it with a dollop of crème fraîche or some homemade croutons to add a crunchy contrast.
Conclusion
Elevate your cooking with these 24 orange pepper seasoning recipes—each one brings a burst of flavor to your savory dishes. Try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest boards for easy reference. Happy cooking!
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
