Name: 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488376H50M33S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American-Chinese
Ingredients: 30 oz frozen chicken nuggets; 1 cup sweet orange marmalade; ½–1 cup barbecue sauce (adjust to taste); Optional: 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

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I’ve whipped up a fuss-free version of Orange Chicken using just a few pantry staples—bold, sweet, and tangy—all in minimal time with maximum flavor.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe captures that crave-worthy orange flavor without fuss or spending forever in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy nights, made entirely with things I usually have on hand, and it tastes delightfully close to take-out, minus the effort. 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen chicken nuggets (about 30 oz)
Sweet orange marmalade (1 cup)
Barbecue sauce (½ to 1 cup, depending on how saucy I want)
Optional: Low-sodium soy sauce (about 3 tablespoons) for added depth

Directions

I cook the chicken nuggets according to the package instructions—whether I bake or air-fry them, I make sure they’re crisp and hot.
While they cook, I whisk together the orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce (if I’m using it) in a microwave-safe bowl. I warm the sauce in the microwave for about a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Once the nuggets are ready, I place them in a large bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss until each piece is coated.
I serve immediately, usually over rice, but sometimes with steamed vegetables or noodles.

Servings and timing

Serves: about 4
Prep time: under 5 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: around 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for color and crunch. A few red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce brings heat. For extra citrus brightness, I’ll stir in fresh orange zest or a squeeze of orange juice.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of nuggets?

Yes—I cube chicken breasts or thighs, cook them until done, and then toss them in the sauce just like with the nuggets.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?

I can skip it—the sauce will still be sweet and tangy, though the soy sauce does add a nice savory balance.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely—I use gluten-free barbecue sauce and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What can I serve with this besides rice?

Cauliflower rice, noodles, or a side of steamed vegetables work perfectly.

How can I make it spicier?

A pinch of red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or using spicy barbecue sauce will give it a nice kick.

Conclusion

I always feel like I’ve hit the jackpot when I make this 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken—sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a quick crowd-pleaser, it never fails to satisfy.