There’s something magical about creating a restaurant-quality dish at home with just a few simple ingredients. That’s exactly what makes this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken a true kitchen hero. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe brings together the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors you love from takeout, but without the long ingredient list or complicated steps. With just chicken, orange marmalade, and barbecue sauce, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
This easy orange chicken recipe captures that signature sticky glaze and citrusy punch while keeping things quick and stress-free. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish fits perfectly into any schedule. Pair it with fluffy white rice, steamed broccoli, or even a fresh Asian-style salad for a well-balanced meal. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a golden, caramelized chicken dish bursting with zesty orange flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful and effortless take on a Chinese restaurant favorite that proves you don’t need a dozen ingredients to create something truly delicious.
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Ingredients
When it comes to simplicity and taste, few recipes can compete with this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken. Here’s everything you need to create that mouthwatering, glossy glaze and tender chicken texture.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup orange marmalade (for the sweet citrus glaze)
- ¾ cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand for best flavor)
Optional Additions (for extra flavor):
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce for umami depth
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic for aromatic richness
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick
Why These Ingredients Work:
- The orange marmalade gives the dish its signature tangy sweetness, blending perfectly with the savory tones of barbecue sauce.
- The barbecue sauce balances the citrus with smokiness and adds a beautiful caramelized glaze when cooked.
- The chicken serves as the perfect base, soaking up every drop of the sauce to deliver juicy, flavorful bites every time.
With just three main ingredients, you’ll get that restaurant-style taste with half the effort and time.
Easy Orange Chicken Recipe 👩🍳 Step-by-Step Directions
This easy orange chicken recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow these directions for the best texture and flavor balance.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove any excess liquid from the pan if necessary.
Step 3: Make the Orange Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together the orange marmalade and barbecue sauce. Stir well until fully combined and smooth. If you like a hint of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour the glaze mixture over the cooked chicken. Stir to coat evenly and let it simmer for about 5–7 minutes. The sauce will thicken and cling beautifully to the chicken, forming that glossy, sticky texture.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
This quick stovetop method guarantees tender, juicy chicken coated in a perfectly balanced sauce every time.
Quick Orange Chicken Tips and Tricks
To make your quick orange chicken even more irresistible, a few smart tweaks can make a big difference.
- Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breasts, especially when cooked quickly over high heat.
- Crispy Coating Option: For extra texture, lightly dredge chicken pieces in cornstarch before pan-frying. This creates a crisp exterior that holds the sauce better.
- Homemade Sauce Variation: If you don’t have orange marmalade, substitute with orange juice concentrate and a spoonful of honey for a similar sweetness.
- Low-Sodium Swap: Use a low-sodium barbecue sauce to control salt levels, especially if you add soy sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container and microwave for 1–2 minutes with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
These tips ensure every bite of your orange chicken is flavorful, balanced, and satisfying — perfect for busy families or solo cooks.
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Air Fryer Method
If you love hands-off cooking, the air fryer 3 ingredient orange chicken method is for you. It creates crispy chicken pieces coated in a sticky glaze without deep frying.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Toss your chicken pieces lightly in cornstarch for crispiness. Spray with a bit of oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Place chicken in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, mix orange marmalade and barbecue sauce in a small saucepan. Heat until bubbly.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the air-fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately over rice or vegetables.
This air fryer method delivers the same sweet-savory magic with a fraction of the oil, making it perfect for a healthier dinner alternative.
Serving Suggestions for 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
The beauty of 3 ingredient orange chicken lies in its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and can easily be transformed into different meal styles.
Serving Ideas:
- Classic Takeout Style: Serve over jasmine rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
- Healthy Option: Pair with steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, or mixed vegetables for a balanced plate.
- Asian Fusion Wraps: Spoon orange chicken into lettuce cups or tortillas for a handheld lunch option.
- Noodle Bowl: Combine with rice noodles or soba noodles for a saucy, satisfying dish.
- Party Appetizer: Skewer the chicken pieces with toothpicks and serve as bite-sized appetizers with extra sauce for dipping.
With its bold flavors and easy prep, this 3 ingredient orange chicken is the ultimate weeknight favorite that delivers comfort, convenience, and irresistible taste every time.
