Introduction
Craving something sweet, tangy, and crispy? This Easy 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for you! It’s super simple, budget-friendly, and doesn’t take much time. You don’t need to be a chef or have a long grocery list. Just three main ingredients and you’re ready to go!
Orange Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese takeout menus, loved by kids and adults alike. But today, we’re going to make it at home—with fewer ingredients and just as much flavor. Ready to learn how to cook this tasty meal in your own kitchen? Let’s get started!
Ingredients – 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
You only need three main ingredients to make this easy Orange Chicken:
- Frozen Popcorn Chicken – 1 bag (about 1 pound)
You can use any store-bought frozen popcorn chicken. - Orange Marmalade – ½ cup
This gives the sweet orange flavor. - BBQ Sauce – ½ cup
Choose your favorite BBQ sauce. It adds a smoky and tangy taste.
Optional (for extra flavor):
- A pinch of red chili flakes (if you like it spicy)
- A sprinkle of green onions for garnish
Step by Step Process – 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
Follow these simple steps to make your delicious Orange Chicken at home:
Step 1: Cook the Popcorn Chicken
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the popcorn chicken package.
- Spread the frozen popcorn chicken on a baking tray.
- Bake it for about 15 to 20 minutes or until it’s golden and crispy.
(You can also air-fry or deep-fry if you prefer.)
Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce
- While the chicken is baking, take a medium-sized pan.
- Add ½ cup orange marmalade and ½ cup BBQ sauce into the pan.
- Heat the pan on medium-low heat.
- Stir the sauce slowly for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and warm.
(Optional: Add red chili flakes for a spicy kick.)
Step 3: Mix Chicken and Sauce
- Once the chicken is ready and crispy, take it out of the oven.
- Put the cooked chicken into the pan with the orange sauce.
- Gently toss or stir until every piece of chicken is well coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Transfer your delicious Orange Chicken onto a serving plate.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if you like.
- Serve it with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.
That’s it! A tasty meal in less than 30 minutes!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Sugars | 22g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen popcorn chicken?
Yes, you can! Just cut chicken breast into small pieces, season with salt and pepper, and fry or bake them until crispy before mixing with the sauce.
Q2: What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
Any kind works! Sweet, smoky, or spicy—go with your favorite. For kids, a mild and sweet BBQ sauce is a good choice.
Q3: Is orange marmalade the same as orange jam?
Not exactly. Orange marmalade has bits of orange peel and a slightly bitter-sweet flavor. But if you don’t have marmalade, orange jam or orange sauce can also be used in a pinch.
Q4: Can I store the leftovers?
Yes! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Q5: What can I serve with orange chicken?
It goes great with white rice, brown rice, fried rice, or stir-fried veggies. You can also serve it with noodles or even lettuce wraps.
Final Thoughts
This Easy 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe is a lifesaver when you need a quick meal that tastes like takeout but is made at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or even family dinners.
With just a few simple steps and only three ingredients, you can make something that’s sweet, tangy, crispy, and totally satisfying. So next time you’re wondering what to cook—remember this recipe. It’s simple, fast, and super tasty! Happy cooking!
