Name: 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
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)

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Craving a delicious, restaurant-style meal without the hassle? Look no further than 3 ingredient orange chicken! This quick and easy recipe combines crispy chicken nuggets with a zesty, sweet, and tangy orange sauce made from just three pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights, after-school snacks, or even a fun family dinner, this 3 ingredient orange chicken delivers bold Chinese-inspired flavors in less than 20 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is so simple, even your kids can whip it up!

In this post, we’ll walk you through the easy steps to make 3 ingredient orange chicken, share tips to customize the sauce, and suggest ways to turn it into a complete meal. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Super Fast: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Minimal Ingredients: Just three ingredients for the sauce, plus pre-cooked chicken.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors to make it spicy, tangy, or even vegetarian.
Kid-Friendly: Easy enough for kids to make and love to eat.
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, appetizer, or even a dipping sauce for other foods.

Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

The beauty of 3 ingredient orange chicken lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish. The sauce is the star, and the chicken can be store-bought or homemade.

For the Orange Chicken

Chicken Nuggets (5 cups, pre-cooked or frozen): Use frozen popcorn chicken for convenience or homemade nuggets for a fresh twist.
Sweet Orange Marmalade (1 cup): Adds a bright, citrusy sweetness to the sauce.
BBQ Sauce (1/2 cup): Brings a smoky, savory depth. We love Sweet Baby Ray’s, but any brand works.
Soy Sauce (3 tbsp): Provides a salty, umami kick to balance the sweetness.

Optional Add-On

Sesame Oil (2 tsp): Adds a nutty, authentic Asian flavor (optional but recommended).

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Making 3 ingredient orange chicken is a breeze with these simple steps. You’ll have a hot, crispy, and saucy dish ready in no time!

1: Cook the Chicken

Prepare the Nuggets: Cook frozen chicken nuggets according to the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes in the oven at 400°F). Alternatively, use homemade chicken nuggets for a fresher option.
Check for Crispiness: Ensure the nuggets are hot and crispy before tossing them in the sauce.

2: Make the Orange Sauce

Mix the Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine orange marmalade, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using). Stir until well blended.
Heat the Sauce: Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds, stirring halfway through. The sauce should be warm and slightly thickened.

3: Combine and Serve

Toss the Chicken: Place the hot, crispy chicken nuggets in a large bowl and pour the warm orange sauce over them. Toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve Immediately: Plate your 3 ingredient orange chicken and enjoy while it’s hot!

Chef’s Tips for Perfect 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Crispier Chicken: For extra crunch, bake or air-fry the nuggets instead of microwaving them.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water or orange juice before microwaving. If too thin, microwave for an additional 15 seconds.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat before tossing with freshly cooked nuggets.
Kid-Friendly Task: Let kids toss the chicken in the sauce—it’s a fun and safe step for little chefs!

Serving Suggestions

Turn your 3 ingredient orange chicken into a complete meal with these serving ideas:

Main Dish: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a classic Chinese takeout vibe.
Side Dishes: Pair with stir-fried vegetables, like broccoli or bell peppers, for a balanced plate.
Appetizer: Skewer the sauced nuggets for a party-friendly finger food.
Garnish: Top with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flair.
Meal Prep: Portion with rice and veggies in containers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Creative Ways to Use the Orange Sauce

The zesty orange sauce in 3 ingredient orange chicken is so versatile, you’ll want to use it beyond this recipe! Try these ideas:

Shrimp: Toss with tempura shrimp for a quick appetizer.
Chicken Wings: Coat wings for a sticky, sweet, and tangy game-day snack.
Dip: Use as a dipping sauce for egg rolls, spring rolls, or crab rangoons.
Pork: Drizzle over grilled pork chops for an Asian-inspired twist.

Health and Nutrition Insights

While 3 ingredient orange chicken is a treat, it can be part of a balanced diet with a few tweaks. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Protein: Chicken nuggets provide protein for muscle health.
Carbohydrates: The sauce adds sugars from marmalade, so portion control is key.
Fats: Sesame oil and nuggets contribute fats, which can be reduced with baked chicken.

Dietary Adaptations

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for fried tofu or baked cauliflower florets. Press tofu for a few hours to remove excess liquid before cooking.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and BBQ sauce to reduce salt content.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your BBQ sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free, and double-check the chicken nuggets.
Healthier Option: Pair with turkey meatballs or grilled chicken and serve over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.

How to Store 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Serve: Safe at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freeze: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce and freeze it alongside frozen nuggets for an effortless meal later.

FAQs About 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?
Sweet Baby Ray’s is a great choice for its balanced flavor, but any BBQ sauce you love will work. Try a spicy version for extra heat.

How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a tablespoon of sriracha, garlic chili sauce, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce before microwaving.

Can I use homemade chicken instead of frozen nuggets?
Absolutely! Make a batch of homemade chicken nuggets or use diced, pan-fried chicken breast for a fresher take.

How do I make a vegetarian version?
Substitute chicken with pressed tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower florets. Coat them in the orange sauce for a delicious plant-based meal.

Can I make the sauce without a microwave?
Yes! Heat the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until warmed through and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes).

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Conclusion

3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is the ultimate shortcut to a flavorful, Chinese-inspired meal that’s ready in minutes. With its sticky, zesty sauce and crispy chicken, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick solo dinner, this recipe delivers big on taste and convenience. Try it out, play with the sauce variations, and share your experience in the comments below!

Happy cooking!