introduction
This dish uses few things and takes little time. You get a sweet, tangy sauce and crispy bite-sized chicken. Try it when you want a fast, tasty meal. For another quick chicken dish, see this easy bang bang chicken bake.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe when you want food that feels special but is very simple. The sauce tastes like orange candy and soy. It sticks to the chicken and tastes great with rice. If you like orange flavors, you might also like an orange olive oil cake.
how to make 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
Make the sauce and toss the cooked chicken in it. You can use frozen nuggets or bake fresh bites. If you prefer a baked style, see a simple baked ranch chicken for ideas on oven time and crisping. Work fast so the sauce keeps the chicken crisp.
Ingredients :
- 5 cups chicken nuggets, precooked
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 1 cup sweet orange marmalade
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)
Directions :
- Cook the chicken nuggets according to the directions on the bag or prepare homemade nuggets.
- Mix BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.
- Stir the sauce until smooth and toss the crispy chicken nuggets in the sauce until well-coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
how to serve 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
Serve the chicken right away so it stays crisp. Put it on white rice, noodles, or a bed of greens. Add steamed veg or a simple salad on the side. For a fun party idea, try making small skewers like these bang bang chicken skewers.
how to store 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
Cool the chicken to room temp. Put in an airtight box and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to keep it crisp. You can also warm in a pan over low heat.
tips to make 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
- Use hot, fresh nuggets for best crunch.
- Warm the sauce well so it coats the chicken fast.
- Add sesame seeds or green onion for a fresh look.
For a creamy twist or a slow-cook idea, check a simple crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
variation (if any)
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap BBQ sauce for hoisin for a new taste.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest with a bit of sugar if you want less marmalade chunks.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh chicken pieces instead of nuggets?
A: Yes. Cut them small, cook until done, then toss in sauce.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No. It is sweet and tangy. Add chili flakes if you want heat.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make and cool the sauce, cover, and keep in the fridge for 2–3 days. Warm before use.
Q: Can I freeze the dish?
A: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce, but the breading may soften when thawed. Use within 1 month.
Conclusion
For another simple orange sauce idea, see the full 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken Sauce Recipe – Crafty Morning (https://www.craftymorning.com/3-ingredient-orange-chicken-sauce-recipe/).
Print
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for crispy orange chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for a fast meal.
Ingredients
- 5 cups chicken nuggets, precooked
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (e.g., 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 the bag or prepare homemade nuggets.
- Mix BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds.
- Stir the sauce until smooth and toss the crispy chicken nuggets in the sauce until well-coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Serve with rice, noodles, or greens for added flavor. To keep the chicken crisp, serve right away.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Microwave and Toss
- Cuisine: Asian






