Easy Orange Chicken
If you’re craving takeout flavors but want something quick, cozy, and family-approved, this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken will be your new favorite. It’s sweet, tangy, and bursting with citrus flavor, ready in under 20 minutes. Growing up in Florida, I fell in love with bright, bold dishes that mix comfort and sunshine in every bite.
This easy orange chicken brings those vibes home with minimal effort and maximum taste. With just three pantry staples, you can whip up a quick orange chicken dinner that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 14 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 1 minute |
| Total Time: | 15 minutes |
| Yield: | 6 servings |
| Course: | Dinner |
| Cuisine: | Chinese |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Best Season: | All year round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and effortless: You only need 3 main ingredients, and it’s ready in less than 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Tastes like takeout: The mix of sweet orange marmalade, tangy BBQ sauce, and a touch of soy gives authentic takeout flavor without leaving home.
- Kid-approved: Crispy chicken nuggets and sweet citrus sauce make it a family favorite even for picky eaters.
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or freezer.
- Customizable: Add sesame oil, green onions, or chili flakes to make it your own signature dish.
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken in less than 20 minutes! Easy orange marmalade bbq sauce and crispy chicken make for a quick and tasty dinner!
Ingredients
- 5 cups chicken nuggets , precooked
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce , (we used Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 1 cup sweet orange marmalade
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil , optional
Instructions
1. Cook the chicken nuggets according to the directions on bag.
2. Mix together the bbq sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce and sesame oil in a microwave safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel.
3. Microwave for 45 seconds.
4. Toss the hot, crispy, chicken nuggets with the orange bbq sauce.
Notes
Use crispy nuggets for the best texture before adding the sauce.
Double the sauce for extra drizzle on rice or veggies.
Add sesame seeds or green onions for garnish.
- Prep Time: 14 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 566
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 1151mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Carbohydrates: 84g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Ingredients
- 5 cups chicken nuggets, precooked
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (we used Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 1 cup sweet orange marmalade
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil, optional
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip Example |
|---|---|
| Chicken nuggets | Use crispy nuggets for the best texture, or swap with baked popcorn chicken. |
| BBQ sauce | Sweet Baby Ray’s gives a rich flavor, but honey BBQ adds a lighter sweetness. |
| Orange marmalade | Choose one with small peel pieces for extra zest and texture. |
| Soy sauce | Low sodium works best to keep the dish balanced. |
| Sesame oil | Optional, but adds a lovely nutty aroma and depth of flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the chicken nuggets according to the directions on the bag.
- Mix together the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave for 45 seconds.
- Toss the hot, crispy chicken nuggets with the orange BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly cooked nuggets for the crispiest texture before adding the sauce.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it.
- Warm your serving bowl slightly to keep the chicken hot longer.
- Double the sauce for extra drizzle on rice or veggies.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overheat the sauce: Just warm enough to blend the flavors, not boil.
- Toss quickly: Combine the nuggets and sauce immediately after cooking for the perfect coating.
- Add a crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish.
- Balance the flavor: If too sweet, add a few drops of rice vinegar or lime juice.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a fiery twist.
- Orange Chicken with Thighs: Use boneless chicken thighs, pan-fried until golden, for a more authentic flavor.
- Orange Chicken Over Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a hearty meal.
- Healthy Version: Bake air-fried nuggets and use sugar-free marmalade for a lighter option.
Love easy citrus chicken dinners? You’ll also adore my Baked Orange Rosemary Chicken – it’s a cozy, oven-baked twist with fragrant herbs and zesty orange glaze, perfect for family nights!
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prepare the sauce up to two days ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Reheat gently before tossing with hot chicken. Leftovers can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet until hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your orange chicken over white rice or fried rice with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds. Add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for a colorful and balanced dinner.
Pairing Ideas
This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, chow mein noodles, or even a fresh Asian cucumber salad. For drinks, try green tea or a crisp white wine like Riesling to balance the sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet on medium heat to keep the chicken crispy, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this with grilled chicken instead of nuggets?
Yes! Grilled or baked chicken pieces work perfectly. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces before tossing with the sauce.
2. What if I don’t have orange marmalade?
You can use apricot jam or peach preserves as a substitute. Add a splash of orange juice for that classic citrus flavor.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use crispy tofu nuggets or cauliflower florets for a meat-free version.
4. What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce pairs best with the tangy orange marmalade. Avoid vinegar-heavy ones, which can overpower the flavor.
5. How can I make it less sweet?
Use a low-sugar marmalade or add a teaspoon of rice vinegar or lemon juice for balance.
6. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just double all ingredients and cook in batches to keep the chicken crispy.
7. What should I serve with it for a complete meal?
Try pairing with fried rice, vegetable stir-fry, or Asian slaw for a delicious and satisfying dinner.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 serving |
|---|---|
| Calories: | 566 kcal |
| Protein: | 6g |
| Carbohydrates: | 84g |
| Fat: | 26g |
| Fiber: | 3g |
| Sugar: | 40g |
| Sodium: | 1151mg |
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Author’s Note
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls in love with the flavors of Mexico and Asia, you’re looking at it. In my Orlando kitchen, recipes like this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken remind me that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. I test every recipe with my family, and when my kids say “it tastes like takeout,” I know it’s a keeper.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights. Try it with rice, noodles, or a side salad for the ultimate quick orange chicken dinner.
