3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

ava salmon

Published:

December 24, 2025

Plate of 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

introduction

This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is fast and kind. You make it with few parts. You can cook it when you want a quick snack or a fast meal. If you like quick cakes too, try orange cake recipe for dessert.

why make this recipe

This dish uses ready chicken and a sweet bright sauce. You save time and wash few dishes. Kids and guests like the sweet taste. If you want other fast dinners, see a 30-minute creamy Tuscan pasta idea.

how to make 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Work fast. Heat the chicken nice and crisp. Mix the sauces until they melt and blend. Toss the hot chicken in the sauce so it coats each piece. For oven steps like this, look at baked ranch chicken for a similar bake idea.

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 on a plate or in a bowl. Add white rice or steamed veg on the side. You can also top with green onion or sesame seeds. You can serve it like a simple bake or try a style like bang bang chicken bake to pair sides.

how to store 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Let the chicken cool to room heat. Put it in an airtight box. Keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Do not leave the chicken out more than two hours.

tips to make 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Use hot crisp nuggets so the sauce sticks well.
Heat the sauce just until it blends; do not burn it.
If you like more heat, add a small pinch of red pepper.
For more bowl ideas, try a bang bang chicken bowl for side ideas.

variation (if any)

Use grilled chicken pieces instead of nuggets.
Swap BBQ sauce for a spicy ketchup mix to change the taste.
Add garlic or ginger to the sauce for a fresh kick.
Use low-sugar marmalade for less sweet sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh orange juice instead of marmalade?
A: Yes. Use a bit of sugar or honey to keep the sweet taste.

Q: Can I make this with raw chicken?
A: Yes. Cook the chicken first until it is done. Then toss in the sauce.

Q: Is sesame oil needed?
A: No. It adds a nutty note, but the sauce works fine without it.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze cooked chicken in a box up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat.

Q: How do I make it less sweet?
A: Add more soy sauce or a splash of vinegar to cut the sweet taste.

Conclusion

For a sauce idea and more tips, see the 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken Sauce Recipe.