3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the tangy sweetness of orange marmalade with the smoky depth of BBQ sauce and the savory kick of soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality orange chicken with minimal effort. Serve it over rice with steamed or stir-fried vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
This simple recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize the flavors by using your favorite BBQ sauce or adding optional garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions. With crispy fried chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze, this dish is a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Minimal Ingredients: Just three pantry staples create a flavorful sauce.
• Crispy and Sticky: The fried chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy, glossy glaze.
• Quick and Easy: Simple steps make this an ideal recipe for weeknights.
Ingredients
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
• 1 cup sweet orange marmalade (e.g., Smucker’s)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3-4 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 cup flour or cornstarch (or a mix of both)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce.
2. Place over low heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
1. Beat the eggs in a small bowl until well blended.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and/or cornstarch. This mixture will create a light and crispy coating.
3. Dip each chicken cube into the beaten egg, then roll it in the flour or cornstarch mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
1. Heat enough vegetable oil in a large frying pan to cover the bottom.
2. Fry the coated chicken pieces over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Transfer the fried chicken to paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
1. Place the fried chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the prepared orange sauce over the chicken and toss to coat each piece evenly.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
1. Serve the orange chicken over a bed of white rice.
2. Optionally, add steamed or stir-fried vegetables like green peppers or broccoli for a complete meal.
3. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips
• Adjust Sweetness: Use a low-sugar marmalade or BBQ sauce for a less sweet version.
• Crispier Chicken: For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken by returning it to the oil for a quick second fry after the first.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken’s texture.
• Freezer: Freeze the sauce and chicken separately. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and combining.
3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that brings takeout-style flavor to your kitchen. With its crispy chicken and sticky-sweet glaze, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite!
