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This quick 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe turns simple frozen chicken nuggets into a tasty, crispy dish with a vibrant sweet and tangy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful meal without a lot of prep. The balance of marmalade and BBQ sauce gives the nuggets a sticky, irresistible glaze that keeps everyone coming back for more.
I first tried this on a rushed weeknight and was amazed how homemade it felt despite the few ingredients. Now it’s a regular in my dinner rotation when I want a fuss free meal with big flavor.
Ingredients
- Frozen chicken nuggets: five cups the crunchy base, choose your favorite brand for crispiness
- Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce: half cup a smoky sweetness that complements orange marmalade well, pick a classic variety
- Sweet orange marmalade: one cup the star for bright citrus notes, homemade or good quality store bought works best
- Soy sauce: three tablespoons adds umami and balance, use naturally brewed soy sauce for better depth
- Sesame oil: two teaspoons a fragrant oil that lifts the sauce, opt for toasted if you like more nuttiness
Instructions
- Sizzle the Chicken:
- Bake or air fry the frozen chicken nuggets using the package instructions until they are hot and crispy. This step ensures the nuggets stay crunchy after coating.
- Warm the Sauce:
- In a microwave safe bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to avoid splatters and microwave for 45 seconds until the sauce is warmed through and cloudy, enhancing the flavors melding together.
- Glaze the Nuggets:
- Right after warming, toss the hot chicken nuggets with the orange sauce in a large bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly until every nugget is evenly coated with the sticky sauce, giving a beautiful glossy finish.
My favorite part is the orange marmalade because it adds brightness but also sticky texture that keeps the nuggets from feeling dry. This recipe always reminds me of those busy school nights when I needed something fast but satisfying enough to feel like a treat.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to keep the nuggets crispy rather than a microwave that might make them soggy. The sauce can be stored separately and poured on when serving to preserve texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have orange marmalade, apricot preserves or honey mixed with fresh orange zest can work as substitutes. For a gluten free option choose gluten free chicken nuggets and tamari instead of soy sauce. You could swap BBQ sauce for a hoisin or plum sauce to experiment with different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this orange chicken over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy cauliflower rice for a low carb option. A side of sautéed green beans or stir fried broccoli adds freshness and color. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and aroma.
This simple orange chicken delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It's a weeknight hero that keeps everyone happy.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What type of chicken is used in this dish?
Pre-cooked frozen chicken nuggets are used, making preparation fast and straightforward.
- → Can I use a different cooking method for the chicken nuggets?
Yes, baking or air-frying the nuggets works well to achieve a crispy texture.
- → How can I adjust the sauce flavor?
Modify the marmalade-to-soy sauce ratio or add chili flakes to introduce heat and balance sweetness.
- → Is this dish suitable for dairy-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are dairy-free, but check the nugget packaging for allergens.
- → What tools do I need for preparation?
A microwave-safe bowl, oven or air fryer, and a mixing spoon are required for easy assembly.