This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is the perfect solution for a quick and delicious dinner. Made with crispy chicken nuggets tossed in a tangy orange BBQ sauce, this dish is ready in under 20 minutes and requires only a few ingredients. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re short on time but still crave something tasty, this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is a game changer. The crispy chicken nuggets are coated in a sweet and savory orange BBQ sauce that brings a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings without the fuss. 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Ingredients

5 cups chicken nuggets, precooked
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s or similar)
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 nuggets according to the directions on the bag.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using). Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.
Toss the hot, crispy chicken nuggets with the orange BBQ sauce until well coated.
Serve and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 14 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Use chicken tenders or breasts: Instead of frozen chicken nuggets, you can use precooked chicken tenders or chunks of boneless chicken breasts.
Add veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, toss in some steamed or stir-fried veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a pan on the stove, adding a little extra sauce if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of nuggets?

Yes, you can use cooked chicken breast or tenders. Just cook the chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and toss it with the sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy by default, but you can add heat to the sauce with hot sauce or chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade BBQ sauce in place of store-bought BBQ sauce for a personalized flavor.

Can I add vegetables to the chicken?

Yes, you can stir in some vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or onions to make this a more balanced meal.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can freeze the leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water and cook it for a few minutes until it thickens.

Can I make this recipe without sesame oil?

Yes, the sesame oil is optional. You can skip it or substitute it with a different oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, consider baking the chicken nuggets instead of microwaving them. This will help them stay crunchy.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is very kid-friendly! The sweet and savory flavors of the sauce are a hit with younger eaters, and the crispy chicken is always a favorite.

Conclusion

With only three simple ingredients, this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is the ultimate quick and tasty meal. The combination of crispy chicken nuggets and a flavorful orange BBQ sauce makes for a delicious dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re in a rush or just want a hassle-free dinner, this easy recipe will satisfy your hunger and leave you craving more. Enjoy!