Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle. The sweet, tangy flavor of orange marmalade combined with BBQ sauce creates a unique twist on a classic orange chicken recipe. With crispy chicken nuggets as the base, this dish is ready in just 15 minutes, making it a great option for a fast and flavorful meal!
Ingredients
- 5 cups cooked chicken nuggets (precooked)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)
- 1 cup sweet orange marmalade
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
- Cook the chicken: Prepare the chicken nuggets according to the package instructions.
- Prepare the sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.
- Combine: Toss the hot, crispy chicken nuggets with the orange BBQ sauce until well-coated.
- Serve: Enjoy the sweet and tangy chicken immediately!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 14 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minute
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of garlic chili sauce, Sriracha, or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken nuggets for fried or baked tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Asian Flavors: Experiment with adding teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or sesame seeds for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. To make ahead, freeze the chicken nuggets and sauce separately.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of nuggets?
Yes, you can use cooked and diced chicken breast or thigh meat as a substitute for the nuggets.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add hot sauce, garlic chili sauce, or red pepper flakes to the orange marmalade BBQ sauce for extra heat.
Can I use a different BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce. A spicier version can give the dish an additional kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free chicken nuggets and soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken nuggets with tofu for a vegetarian version.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Opt for baked chicken nuggets or use turkey meatballs instead of fried chicken for a healthier twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover orange chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.
Can I use this sauce for other dishes?
Yes! This orange marmalade BBQ sauce works great with shrimp, chicken wings, or even as a dipping sauce.
How do I know when the chicken is ready?
If you’re using precooked chicken nuggets, just heat them according to the package instructions, then toss them in the sauce.
Conclusion
This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick, easy, and flavorful recipe that delivers all the sweetness and tang of traditional orange chicken with minimal effort. With crispy chicken nuggets and a simple homemade sauce, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that can be ready in just 15 minutes!
Print
3-Ingredient Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick and delicious meal made with crispy chicken nuggets, sweet orange marmalade, and BBQ sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this simple dish brings a tangy and flavorful twist to traditional orange chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast, tasty meal with minimal effort!
Ingredients
5 cups cooked chicken nuggets (precooked)
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)
1 cup sweet orange marmalade
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the chicken: Prepare the chicken nuggets according to the package instructions.
-
Prepare the sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.
-
Combine: Toss the hot, crispy chicken nuggets with the orange BBQ sauce until well-coated.
-
Serve: Enjoy the sweet and tangy chicken immediately!
Notes
Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
For a vegetarian version, swap chicken nuggets with tofu.
Experiment with teriyaki sauce or sesame seeds for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
