Pin it
This 3-ingredient orange chicken transforms store-bought nuggets into a takeout-worthy meal in just minutes. It's become my secret weapon for those evenings when I'm craving something flavorful but don't have the energy for elaborate cooking.
I first created this recipe during finals week in college when I needed something better than plain nuggets but didn't have time for real cooking. Now it's my go-to when my nieces and nephews visit because they think I'm some kind of culinary genius.
Ingredients
- Precooked chicken nuggets: Fresh from the oven provide the perfect crispy base for our sauce. Choose a quality brand for best results.
- BBQ sauce: Adds smoky depth and tangy sweetness. Sweet Baby Ray's works particularly well here.
- Orange marmalade: Brings that signature citrus flavor without needing fresh oranges or zest. Look for one with visible orange pieces for texture.
- Soy sauce: Provides the umami backbone that makes this taste authentic. Low sodium works fine if preferred.
- Sesame oil: Optional but adds that subtle nutty finish that elevates the whole dish. A little goes a long way.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the nuggets:
- Cook your chicken nuggets according to package directions until they're extra crispy. The crispier they are initially, the better they'll hold up once sauced. I prefer air frying or oven baking over microwaving for optimal texture.
- Mix the sauce:
- Combine your BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a microwave-safe bowl. The marmalade might seem thick at first, but it will melt beautifully when heated. Be sure to cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering in the microwave.
- Heat the sauce:
- Microwave the mixture for 45 seconds, then give it a good stir. The heat helps the marmalade melt into the other ingredients, creating a glossy, cohesive sauce. The sauce should be warm but not bubbling hot.
- Coat the chicken:
- While the nuggets are still hot, toss them gently with the warm sauce. I recommend doing this in a large bowl using a silicone spatula to ensure every piece gets evenly coated without breaking apart the nuggets.
Pin it
The orange marmalade is truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered this hack when I ran out of orange juice and orange zest for a traditional recipe and spotted the jar of marmalade in my refrigerator. The concentrated flavor and slight bitterness creates a much more complex sauce than using just orange juice alone.
Serving Suggestions
This orange chicken pairs beautifully with simple steamed rice, which soaks up the extra sauce perfectly. For a complete takeout experience, serve alongside some steamed broccoli or a quick cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top just before serving.
Make It Your Own
While this recipe is delicious as written, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat, or mix in some minced garlic or ginger for additional depth. For a tangier version, add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. You can also substitute chicken tenders or even tofu nuggets for the chicken nuggets.
Storage Tips
This orange chicken is best enjoyed immediately after preparation when the nuggets still maintain some crispness. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving to help restore some crispness. The sauce tends to thicken when cold, so you might want to add a splash of water when reheating.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh chicken instead of nuggets?
Yes! You can use fresh chicken. Simply cook the chicken pieces beforehand, then toss them in the sauce as instructed.
- → What other sauces can I use?
You can experiment with teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy Sriracha blend for different flavors.
- → Can this be made in advance?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before tossing it with freshly cooked chicken.
- → Is sesame oil necessary?
No, it's optional. Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor, but the dish is delicious without it too.
- → How should I serve this dish?
Serve it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a refreshing green salad for a complete meal.