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The Ultimate Guide to 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken: A 15-Minute Miracle

The Ultimate Guide to 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken: A 15-Minute Miracle

Craving Chinese takeout but short on time? This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a quick, tasty solution. Crispy chicken nuggets tossed in a sweet and tangy orange BBQ sauce make dinner ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 cups precooked chicken nuggets

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)

  • 1 cup sweet orange marmalade

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken
    Cook the chicken nuggets according to the package directions until hot and crispy.

  2. Make the Orange Sauce
    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.

  3. Toss & Serve
    Toss the hot chicken nuggets in the orange BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Crispier chicken: Bake nuggets in the oven instead of microwaving for extra crunch.

  • Extra zing: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the sauce.

  • Serving ideas: Serve over rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

  • Make ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance; just reheat before tossing with chicken.