The 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy schedules. It combines frozen chicken nuggets, orange marmalade, and BBQ sauce to create a flavorful dish that requires minimal effort. This recipe is not only simple to make but also highly versatile, allowing for various customizations based on personal preferences. Whether you need a fast weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish offers a convenient and tasty solution that can be prepared in just minutes.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients for the 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe are:

1. Frozen Chicken Nuggets: These form the base of the dish, providing a crispy and tender texture that pairs well with the sauce.
2. Orange Marmalade: This sweet and tangy spread adds a burst of citrus flavor, perfectly complementing the savory notes of the chicken.
3. BBQ Sauce: The smoky and rich BBQ sauce balances the sweetness of the marmalade, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

Optional Additions:

• Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami depth to the sauce.
• Sesame Oil: Enhances the dish with a subtle nutty flavor.

Detailed Instructions on How to Prepare the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the chicken nugget packaging.
   • Arrange the frozen chicken nuggets on a baking sheet in a single layer.
   • Bake the nuggets for the time specified on the package, usually around 10-15 minutes, until they are golden and crispy.
2. Make the Orange Marmalade BBQ Sauce:
   • While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce.
   • In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of orange marmalade and 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce.
   • Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the marmalade and BBQ sauce are well combined and smooth.
   • Optional: Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for a hint of umami or 1 teaspoon of sesame oil for a nutty flavor.
3. Coat the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken nuggets are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
   • Pour the warm orange marmalade BBQ sauce over the chicken.
   • Toss the chicken nuggets in the sauce until they are evenly coated.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Balance of Flavors:

• Taste and Adjust: After mixing the sauce, taste it to check the balance between sweetness and tanginess. Adjust by adding more BBQ sauce for smokiness or more marmalade for sweetness.
• Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Texture: For extra crispiness, consider giving the nuggets a quick broil in the oven after coating them in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Bake or Fry the Chicken Nuggets: Preheat your oven or air fryer according to the package instructions for the frozen chicken nuggets. Arrange the nuggets on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them until they are crispy and golden brown, typically about 10-12 minutes in the oven or 8-10 minutes in the air fryer. For an extra-crispy texture, consider flipping them halfway through the cooking time.

2. Make the Orange Marmalade BBQ Sauce:

• Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together 1 cup of orange marmalade and ½ cup of BBQ sauce. Stir the mixture continuously until the ingredients are well combined.
• Simmer the Sauce: Once the sauce is mixed, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
• Adjust the Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust according to your preference. If you want it sweeter, add a little more orange marmalade. For a smokier flavor, increase the BBQ sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash of water or chicken broth.

3. Combine and Serve:

• Coat the Chicken Nuggets: Once the chicken nuggets are done cooking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm orange marmalade BBQ sauce over the nuggets and toss them gently to coat each piece evenly.
• Garnish and Serve: Serve the orange chicken immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for Perfect Flavor Balance:

• Sweetness vs. Smokiness: Ensure the sauce has a balanced flavor by adjusting the ratio of orange marmalade to BBQ sauce.
• Texture: If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a bit of water; if too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.

Customizing the Recipe 

1. Adding Heat:

• Sriracha: For a spicy kick, add 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha to the orange marmalade BBQ sauce while it simmers. This will introduce a tangy heat that complements the sweetness of the marmalade.
• Crushed Red Peppers: Alternatively, sprinkle ½ to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce. This method allows you to control the heat level easily and adds a subtle, lingering spice.

2. Vegetarian Alternative:

• Tofu: Replace chicken nuggets with firm or extra-firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu in cornstarch for added crispiness, then pan-fry or bake until golden brown. Coat the tofu with the orange marmalade BBQ sauce for a vegetarian-friendly option that retains the dish’s sweet and tangy flavor profile.

3. Using Different Proteins:

• Shrimp: Substitute chicken nuggets with large shrimp. Cook the shrimp by grilling, sautéing, or baking until they turn pink and opaque. Toss the cooked shrimp in the orange marmalade BBQ sauce for a seafood twist on the original recipe.
• Chicken Wings: Another alternative is using chicken wings. Bake or fry the wings until crispy, then toss them in the orange marmalade BBQ sauce. The wings will absorb the flavors beautifully, making them an excellent choice for parties or game-day snacks.

Serving Suggestions

1. Best Side Dishes:

• Fried Rice: Pair the orange chicken with classic fried rice for a complete and satisfying meal. The savory and slightly oily fried rice balances the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas adds a fresh, healthy contrast to the richness of the orange chicken, making the meal more balanced.
• Noodles: Serve with stir-fried noodles tossed in soy sauce and garlic for a hearty and flavorful side.

2. Serving as an Appetizer:

• For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, serve the orange chicken as bite-sized pieces with toothpicks. Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of extra sauce for dipping. This makes for a great finger food at parties or gatherings.

3. Serving as a Main Course:

• When serving as a main course, present the orange chicken over a bed of steamed white rice or quinoa. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an attractive presentation. Add a side of egg rolls or spring rolls to round out the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips 

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Place leftover orange chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
• Microwave: For quicker reheating, use the microwave, but be aware that the chicken may lose some of its crisp texture. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Freezing the Sauce:

• Sauce Storage: The orange marmalade BBQ sauce can be frozen separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and using it with fresh or reheated chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What BBQ sauce works best?

• A smoky and slightly sweet BBQ sauce pairs well with the orange marmalade in this recipe. Varieties like hickory or mesquite-flavored BBQ sauce add depth to the dish. If you prefer a tangier sauce, consider using a vinegar-based BBQ sauce to balance the sweetness of the marmalade.

2. Can this be made vegetarian?

• Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken nuggets with tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Firm tofu, when pressed and pan-fried, absorbs the orange marmalade BBQ sauce beautifully, offering a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option.

3. How to make the sauce spicier?

• To add heat, incorporate Sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce into the orange marmalade BBQ sauce. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha or ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes and adjust to taste. These additions will provide a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the marmalade.

4. Other Asian flavors to try?

• For an Asian-inspired twist, consider adding soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a splash of rice vinegar to the orange marmalade BBQ sauce. These ingredients add umami and complexity to the dish. Additionally, garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions can enhance the overall Asian flavor profile.

5. How to lighten up the dish?

• To reduce the calorie content, use baked or air-fried chicken nuggets instead of fried ones. Additionally, opt for a sugar-free BBQ sauce and reduce the amount of orange marmalade. Pairing the dish with steamed vegetables or serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice can also help lighten up the meal.

Conclusion 

The 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe is the epitome of simplicity and versatility, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just frozen chicken nuggets, orange marmalade, and BBQ sauce, you can create a flavorful meal in minutes. The recipe’s adaptability allows you to experiment with different variations, such as adding heat, trying vegetarian alternatives, or using other proteins. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and customizable meal that can easily fit into any meal plan or occasion.

• Save

3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ)

---

• Author: Christine

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This 3-ingredient orange chicken is a quick and easy dish that combines crispy chicken nuggets with a sweet and tangy orange marmalade BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

• Cook the chicken nuggets according to the directions on 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.

Notes

• Customization: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or smokiness of the sauce by tweaking the orange marmalade and BBQ sauce ratio.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken nuggets with tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Variation: Add Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.