3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) is the ultimate shortcut dinner that tastes like takeout but takes barely any effort. With crispy chicken nuggets and a bold orange BBQ sauce made from just a few pantry staples, this recipe transforms busy weeknights into something delicious in under 20 minutes.
If you love sweet and savory sauces with a hint of citrus, 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) will quickly become a regular in your meal rotation. Even better, you don't need a wok, deep fryer, or complicated prep work. Just cook the chicken, warm the sauce, toss, and serve.
I first made 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) on a hectic evening when I needed dinner fast. I had frozen chicken nuggets in the freezer and a jar of orange marmalade sitting in the fridge. Instead of ordering takeout, I mixed the marmalade with BBQ sauce and soy sauce, heated it in the microwave, and tossed everything together. The result surprised everyone at the table. The sauce turned glossy and sticky, coating each crispy bite perfectly. Since then, this recipe has saved dinner more times than I can count.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook chicken nuggets according to package directions until crispy.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds, then stir until smooth.
- Toss hot chicken nuggets with the orange BBQ sauce until fully coated.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ)
Incredibly Fast and Easy
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) comes together in about 15 minutes. While the chicken bakes, you mix and heat the sauce. Because the sauce only requires a quick microwave warm-up, you save time without sacrificing flavor.
Additionally, this recipe works beautifully with store-bought frozen chicken nuggets. That means no breading, no frying, and no mess. However, you can also use homemade nuggets if you prefer.
Because the steps are simple, this recipe even works as a beginner-friendly meal.
Sweet, Sticky, and Crowd-Pleasing
The combination of BBQ sauce and orange marmalade creates a sweet and tangy glaze. Soy sauce balances the sweetness with savory depth, while optional sesame oil adds a nutty finish.
As a result, 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) delivers bold flavor without complicated ingredients.
Kids love the sweetness, and adults appreciate the citrus kick. It truly satisfies a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ)
Crispy Chicken Nuggets
You need about five cups of precooked chicken nuggets. Because this recipe focuses on speed and convenience, frozen nuggets work perfectly.
Bake or air fry them until golden and crispy. The crispier they are, the better they hold up once coated in sauce.
If you want to lighten things up, use baked nuggets or make your own with lean chicken breast.
The 3-Ingredient Sauce
The sauce for 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) includes:
- BBQ sauce
- Sweet orange marmalade
- Soy sauce
These three ingredients create the base flavor. However, sesame oil adds extra depth if you choose to include it.
The BBQ sauce provides smoky sweetness. The marmalade delivers bright citrus flavor and glossy texture. Soy sauce adds balance and saltiness.
Because the sauce heats quickly in the microwave, it thickens slightly and becomes smooth before coating the chicken.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ)
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Prepare the chicken nuggets according to package instructions. Bake or air fry until crispy.
Since the sauce is sticky, crisp chicken prevents sogginess.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil if using.
Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for about 45 seconds. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
The sauce should look glossy and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Transfer the hot chicken nuggets to a large bowl. Pour the warm orange BBQ sauce over them and toss until evenly coated.
Serve immediately while the chicken remains crispy and the sauce stays sticky.
Because this dish comes together so quickly, it works perfectly for last-minute dinners.
Make It a Full Meal
Serve with Rice
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or fried rice.
The rice absorbs the extra sauce beautifully, creating a complete and satisfying plate.
You can also serve it over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Add Vegetables
To balance the sweetness, serve alongside steamed broccoli, snap peas, or sautéed bell peppers.
You can even toss vegetables directly into the sauce if you prefer everything coated together.
If you add extra ingredients, consider doubling the sauce so everything stays flavorful.
Flavor Variations
Make It Spicy
If you prefer heat, add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste to the sauce.
You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
Lighten It Up
Use baked chicken breast pieces instead of breaded nuggets.
You can also reduce the marmalade slightly and add a splash of fresh orange juice for brightness without extra sweetness.
Try Different Proteins
This orange BBQ sauce works beautifully with:
- Chicken wings
- Shrimp
- Tofu
- Meatballs
Because the sauce is versatile, you can use it far beyond nuggets.
Storage Tips
Store leftover 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to two months. For easy prep, freeze extra sauce in a small container next to your frozen chicken for a quick future meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this really only 3 ingredients?
Yes, the sauce uses three main ingredients. The sesame oil is optional.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Use your favorite brand. A sweet and smoky variety works particularly well.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Use plant-based nuggets or crispy tofu instead of chicken.
Can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the marmalade slightly and increase soy sauce for a more savory balance.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The sweet citrus flavor makes it especially appealing to children.
Conclusion
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) proves that quick meals can still taste bold and satisfying. With crispy nuggets and a glossy orange BBQ glaze, this recipe delivers takeout-style flavor in just minutes.
Whether you need a weeknight dinner solution or a quick crowd-pleaser, this easy orange chicken recipe checks every box. Keep the ingredients on hand, and you'll always have a fast, flavorful meal ready when you need it most.
Leave a Reply