Name: 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 14 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 5 cups chicken nuggets, precooked; 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (such as Sweet Baby Ray’s); 1 cup sweet orange marmalade; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s shockingly easy yet delightfully flavorful, this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is about to become your new go-to. Imagine crispy chicken nuggets smothered in a sticky, tangy, and sweet orange glaze that comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s a weeknight lifesaver when you’re short on time but craving takeout-style comfort. The best part? With just a handful of basic ingredients, you’re still able to create a meal that looks and tastes straight out of your favorite Chinese restaurant. Whether you’re feeding kids or just treating yourself, you’ll love how the signature sauce caramelizes over every golden bite. Let’s dive in to see just how easy it is to wow your taste buds with 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken!

3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken shines in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen to maximize flavor and texture without complicating your grocery list. Here’s how these humble components work their magic:

Chicken Nuggets: Choose your favorite fully-cooked, frozen nuggets for ease; these provide that essential crispy bite and hearty base for our sauce.
BBQ Sauce: A smoky-sweet barbecue sauce (like Sweet Baby Ray’s) lays down savory, tangy undertones that balance the citrus.
Sweet Orange Marmalade: The key to the dish’s iconic glossy finish, this adds big orange flavor and a touch of luscious sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Just a splash deepens the umami and gives the sauce complexity—don’t skip it!
Sesame Oil (optional): For a nutty, aromatic pop that’ll make your kitchen smell irresistible (totally optional, but highly recommended).

How to Make 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Step 1: Crisp Up the Chicken Nuggets

Start by preparing the chicken nuggets according to the package instructions. Whether you bake, air fry, or even deep-fry, aim for a texture that’s golden brown and super crisp. This crunch is crucial, as it stands up to the sticky sauce and delivers that classic takeout vibe. Set them aside while you whip up the signature glaze.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Signature Sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and (if you’re using it) sesame oil. These ingredients will meld into a glossy, aromatic glaze. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel (it keeps things tidy!) and microwave for about 45 seconds, or until hot and bubbling slightly. This quick zap helps the flavors blend and makes the sauce perfect for coating.

Step 3: Toss and Glaze

Transfer your crispy chicken nuggets to a large mixing bowl and immediately pour the hot orange BBQ sauce over the top. Toss everything well so each nugget is generously coated in the bright, sticky glaze. Serve right away for the ultimate combination of crispy and saucy—just the way great 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken should be.

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Garnishes

Add a little flourish to your dish! Top your orange chicken with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest if you’re feeling fancy. These garnishes not only add a pop of color, but they also introduce subtle layers of freshness and crunch that take your homemade 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken to the next level.

Side Dishes

This easy dish pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, or even lo mein for a full takeout-style feast at home. A quick cucumber salad or snow peas on the side will keep things fresh and balance out the sticky sweetness of the sauce beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken on wooden skewers for a party-friendly appetizer, or pile them up in lettuce wraps with a drizzle of extra sauce. If you want to go all out, top a rice bowl with your saucy 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken, add crunchy veggies, and finish with a wedge of orange for extra color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken keeps surprisingly well. Cool any extras to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, which actually helps re-coat the chicken nicely when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away, freeze the chicken (after it’s sauced and cooled) in a sealed container or freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat when the craving strikes for an instant hit of sweet-and-savory comfort.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in the oven or air fryer for 5-10 minutes at 350°F, which helps restore a bit of crispness to the nuggets. You can also microwave in a pinch—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chicken instead of frozen nuggets?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can toss homemade breaded chicken bites in the sauce instead of pre-cooked nuggets. Just be sure they’re cooked through and crispy before saucing.

Is there a substitute for orange marmalade?

If you don’t have marmalade, you could try using orange jam or even peach preserves. Just note that true marmalade offers the best balance of citrus punch and sticky texture for 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken.

Can I make this gluten free?

Yes! Opt for gluten-free chicken nuggets and double-check your BBQ sauce and soy sauce (use tamari or coconut aminos if needed) to make this dish fully gluten free.

Does this taste like takeout orange chicken?

You bet! While it’s a shortcut version, the zesty glaze and crispy chicken will remind you of your favorite Chinese takeout—only it’s quicker and made right in your own kitchen.

Is sesame oil necessary?

It’s completely optional, but that little drizzle at the end can really punch up the nutty aroma and give your 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken an extra something special. If you don’t have it, the dish will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving big flavor without the fuss, give this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken a try. It delivers all the bright, tangy, and comforting notes you love, but with just minutes of work. Whether it’s for a busy dinner or a laid-back movie night, this dish will quickly earn a spot in your recipe rotation. Don’t be surprised if your friends and family ask for it again and again!