If your evenings look anything like mine — a flurry of homework check-ins, last-minute laundry, and wondering what on earth is for dinner — then you’re going to love this easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients. It’s one of those magical dishes that feels like takeout but comes together with stuff you probably already have in your fridge. Bonus? It’s fast, delicious, and a hit with picky eaters (yes, even the nugget-obsessed kind).
This recipe is my secret weapon when I want something warm and satisfying, but I’m not about to break out a wok or deep fryer. You’ll whip it up in 15 minutes flat — no chopping, frying, or stress. Let’s get into it!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe (3 Ingredients!)
- Zero stress: Minimal prep, maximum flavor. Great for busy moms, overworked professionals, or, honestly, anyone with a microwave and a dream.
- Kid-approved: The sweet-meets-savory sauce wins over even the most nugget-loyal kiddos.
- No fancy ingredients: You likely have everything on hand already — and if not, it’s a super quick grocery run.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick look at what goes into this easy orange chicken. The full recipe with exact measurements is waiting for you in the recipe card below!
- Precooked chicken nuggets – Crispy, juicy, and the perfect base for our sweet-and-sticky sauce.
- BBQ sauce – Adds that smoky depth and blends beautifully with the marmalade.
- Orange marmalade – This dish brings in the citrusy sweetness that makes it taste just like restaurant-style orange chicken.
- Soy sauce – Balances the sweetness with a savory, umami kick.
- Sesame oil (optional) – For that little extra something. It adds a lovely nutty aroma, but you can skip it if you don’t have any on hand.
How to Make Easy Orange Chicken in 3 Simple Steps
Cook the chicken nuggets
Follow the directions on the bag to get them nice and crispy. Whether you use an oven, air fryer, or toaster oven, just aim for golden-brown perfection.
Make the orange BBQ sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using). Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds. Give it a stir. Voilà — your sweet, sticky, flavor-packed sauce is ready.
Toss and serve
Toss the hot chicken nuggets in the warm orange sauce until they’re fully coated. Serve immediately and watch them disappear.
Katherine’s Tip Jar
- Use your favorite nuggets – Gluten-free? Spicy? Dinosaur-shaped? It’s all fair game.
- Air fryer = extra crispy – If you want that irresistible crunch, the air fryer is your best friend.
- Double the sauce – This sauce is liquid gold. If your family likes extra for dipping (or pouring over rice), make a little more.
- Leftovers? – Pop them in the fridge in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring the crunch back.
A Quick Backstory
This easy orange chicken recipe came to the rescue on a weeknight when I had zero time and even less motivation. My kids were circling like sharks, asking when dinner would be ready, and I stared into my freezer like it held the answers to life. Enter the humble chicken nugget and a half-used jar of orange marmalade. I tossed a few things together, crossed my fingers, and wouldn’t you know it — they loved it. Now it’s a regular in our rotation.
FAQs About This Easy Orange Chicken Recipe (3 Ingredients)
Can I use homemade chicken instead of nuggets?
Absolutely! Breaded and baked chicken tenders or even plain sautéed chicken chunks work great, too.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any extras in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy.
Can I make it spicier?
Yes! Stir a little sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce if you like a kick.
What can I serve with it?
Try steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or even a simple green salad for balance.
Whether juggling work, kids, or just your sanity — this easy orange chicken recipe (3 ingredients) is here to help. It’s one of those back-pocket meals that looks impressive but couldn’t be simpler. And honestly? It just might steal a spot in your weekly dinner lineup.
Print
Easy Orange Chicken Recipe 3 Ingredients for Quick Dinners
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy orange chicken recipe with 3 ingredients is the ultimate weeknight hack — crispy chicken nuggets tossed in a sweet, tangy orange BBQ sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and full of flavor!
Ingredients
5 cups chicken nuggets , precooked
1/2 cup BBQ Sauce , (we used Sweet Baby Ray’s)
1 cup sweet orange marmalade
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons sesame oil , optional
Instructions
Cook the Chicken Nuggets
Prepare the precooked chicken nuggets according to the instructions on the package. Bake or air fry until golden and crispy.Make the Orange BBQ Sauce
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 45 seconds. Stir well to combine.Toss and Serve
While the nuggets are still hot, pour the sauce over and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispiness, air fry the nuggets instead of baking.
This dish is perfect served over rice or with steamed veggies.
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice.
Don’t skip the soy sauce — it balances the sweetness.
You can double the sauce if serving over rice or want leftovers.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Easy Chicken Recipes
- Method: Baking, Microwave
- Cuisine: American, Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients, orange chicken with nuggets, 15 minute dinner, kid friendly chicken recipe, sweet and tangy chicken, orange bbq chicken
