3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful meal using simple pantry staples. Combining crispy chicken nuggets with a sweet and tangy orange BBQ sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the chicken nuggets according to the directions on the bag until they are hot and crispy.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cover with a damp paper towel.
- Step 3: Microwave the sauce mixture for 45 seconds until warm and combined.
- Step 4: Toss the cooked chicken nuggets with the hot orange BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, bake chicken nuggets in the oven instead of frying or microwaving.
- Substitute chicken nuggets with cooked chicken breast pieces or tofu for a different texture.
- Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for garnish and extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a dash of chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to the sauce mixture.
Storage
Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Note that the nuggets may lose some crispness upon reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chicken instead of nuggets?
Yes, you can use cooked chicken breast or thigh pieces. Just ensure they are cooked through before tossing with the sauce.
Is sesame oil necessary in the sauce?
Sesame oil is optional but adds a lovely nutty depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, you can omit it without affecting the overall flavor too much.
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3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that elevates simple precooked chicken nuggets into a flavorful dish with a delicious orange BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines sweet orange marmalade with tangy BBQ sauce and soy sauce for a delightful, sticky glaze that coats crispy chicken nuggets for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 5 cups chicken nuggets, precooked
Sauce
- 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: Prepare the chicken nuggets according to the package instructions until they are hot and crispy.
- Prepare the orange BBQ sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, sweet orange marmalade, soy sauce, and optional sesame oil. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters.
- Heat the sauce: Microwave the sauce mixture for 45 seconds until heated through and slightly thickened.
- Toss the chicken nuggets: Immediately toss the hot, crispy chicken nuggets in the warm orange BBQ sauce until they are evenly coated and glossy. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Using precooked chicken nuggets speeds up the preparation time significantly.
- The sesame oil is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor and subtle nuttiness.
- Microwaving the sauce helps meld the flavors quickly; alternatively, you can heat it gently on the stovetop.
- Serve with steamed rice or as a fun appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing.
- Adjust the soy sauce amount based on your desired saltiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Microwaving and baking (precooked chicken nuggets baked or cooked according to package)
- Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion
Keywords: orange chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, chicken nuggets, orange BBQ sauce, 3 ingredient recipe
