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Quick Orange Chicken Recipe Using Only a Handful of Ingredients


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4.7 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Orange chicken lovers rejoice with this simple 4-ingredient orange chicken that brings restaurant-quality flavor to home kitchens. Crispy chicken pieces glazed in sweet-tangy orange sauce deliver a quick and delightful meal you can savor in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 5 cups frozen chicken nuggets

Sauces and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • 1/2 cup sweet baby rays BBQ sauce (or any favorite BBQ sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

Garnish:

  • Green onion (optional)

Instructions

  1. Arrange frozen chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and roast according to package guidelines at specified temperature until golden and crispy.
  2. Allow nuggets to rest momentarily while crafting the vibrant citrus-infused glaze.
  3. Select a medium saucepan and blend orange marmalade, tangy BBQ sauce, and savory soy sauce.
  4. Activate medium-high heat, gently whisking the sauce mixture for 5-7 minutes until it transforms into a glossy, effervescent coating.
  5. Transfer roasted nuggets directly into the simmering sauce, ensuring each piece receives complete flavor coverage.
  6. Continuously fold and rotate nuggets within the sauce, permitting the glaze to caramelize and slightly thicken around the crisp exterior.
  7. Once nuggets are thoroughly glazed and sauce reaches a rich, clingy consistency, remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality marmalade for a more vibrant orange flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by simmering longer or adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to create a glossier coating.
  • For a healthier version, opt for baked or air-fryer chicken nuggets with lower fat content and use reduced-sodium soy sauce.
  • Elevate the dish with optional garnishes like chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added texture and heat.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 305 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 540 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg