Introduction
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is easier than you think! Forget complicated stir fries and takeout menus filled with hidden ingredients. This ridiculously simple recipe brings sweet, citrusy, and savory Orange Chicken flavor to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. I remember the first time I made this for my family. My kids couldn't believe something so delicious came from the kitchen so quickly. This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights and proof that amazing meals don't have to be a hassle.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate luxury. This recipe proves it! Not only is it incredibly fast, but it tastes like you spent hours perfecting the sauce. The combination of the tangy orange marmalade, savory soy sauce, and crispy chicken creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
This dish is comfort food at its finest. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It is a great alternative to ordering takeout and a way to be more mindful of the ingredients in your food. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with only a few ingredients needed. The best part? You probably already have everything you need in your pantry!
I adapted this recipe from a busy mom friend who swore it was the only way she survived the school year. Now, it’s a staple in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you! Like my simple spaghetti carbonara, this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. This is just as easy, if not easier!
Ingredients Needed for This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this magical meal:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
That's it! Seriously!
How to Make This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Ready to make some magic? Follow these simple steps:
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite sized pieces (about 1 inch).
- In a large skillet or wok, stir together marmalade and soy sauce over medium heat until well combined and slightly bubbling. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The marmalade should melt and blend into the soy sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the orange marmalade mixture. Ensure that each piece of chicken is well coated.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- If the sauce is too thin at the end of the cooking time, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken to your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
How to Serve This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it over steamed rice for a classic combination, or try it with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist. Noodles are also a fantastic option – think lo mein, chow mein, or even zucchini noodles for a low carb alternative.
For a complete meal, pair it with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple salad. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped green onions add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Consider offering a variety of toppings, such as sriracha for a spicy kick or crushed peanuts for added crunch. Serving this dish family style allows everyone to customize their meal to their liking.
How to Store This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Leftovers of this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken are fantastic!
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer safe container for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Reheat refrigerated chicken in the microwave, oven, or in a skillet over medium heat. For frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Want to take this recipe to the next level? Here are a few tips:
- Chicken: While I prefer chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
- Marmalade: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of marmalade. Blood orange or grapefruit marmalade can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Soy Sauce: For a gluten free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also use low sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
- Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce for extra sweetness.
- Spice: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of sriracha.
Remember, this is your dish! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Much like making chocolate chip cookies, there is always more room for experimentation.
Helpful Notes for This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
A few more things to keep in mind:
- The quality of your ingredients really shines in this recipe. Choose a good quality orange marmalade and soy sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure that it browns properly.
- Keep a close eye on the sauce while it’s simmering. It can thicken quickly and burn if left unattended.
- If you don’t have orange marmalade, you could also use orange preserves or even apricot jam as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Follow us on Pinterest for more simple and delicious recipes!
Variation of This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add a can of pineapple chunks (drained) to the sauce along with the chicken for a tropical twist.
- Lemon Orange Chicken: Replace half of the orange marmalade with lemon marmalade for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.
- Vegetarian Orange “Chicken”: Substitute the chicken with cubed and pan-fried tofu.
- 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken with Vegetables: Before adding the chicken, sauté some broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snow peas in the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 3 ingredients for Orange Chicken?
The 3 ingredients for making this easy orange chicken recipe are chicken, orange marmalade, and soy sauce. It’s a simple combination that creates a delicious and flavorful dish without requiring a lot of time or effort.
How do you make orange chicken sauce from scratch?
While this recipe uses orange marmalade for ultimate simplicity, you can make orange chicken sauce from scratch by combining orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. Simmer the mixture until it thickens into a glaze.
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken such as chicken thighs or chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What should I serve with 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken?
This orange chicken pairs perfectly with steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa. You can also serve it with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or other Asian-inspired vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Conclusion
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is your secret weapon for quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout spot. Forget complicated recipes and endless chopping – this recipe is all about simplicity and taste. Give it a try, and I promise you'll be hooked! Share comments below and let us know what you think!
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken: Easiest Recipe EVER!
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe is a simple and fast weeknight meal! It’s sweet, tangy, and savory!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition:
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 20g
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup Orange marmalade
- 1/2 cup Soy sauce
Instructions
- 1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite sized pieces (about 1 inch).
- 2. In a large skillet or wok, stir together marmalade and soy sauce over medium heat until well combined and slightly bubbling.
- 3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the orange marmalade mixture.
- 4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- 5. If the sauce is too thin at the end of the cooking time, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken to your desired consistency.
- 6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the sauce to your preference. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice or a teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness. Serve with rice or noodles and your favorite steamed vegetables.