Easy 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken (with Orange Marmalade & BBQ Sauce)

If you’re craving takeout-style orange chicken but want to skip the long prep time and deep frying, this easy 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe is your new go-to. It’s sweet, tangy, savory, and comes together in just about 30 minutes. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can whip up a delicious dinner that tastes like it took hours.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 3 Ingredients – No long shopping list. You only need orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, and crispy chicken.
• Quick and Easy – Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like cooking.
• Big Flavor, Minimal Effort – The combo of sweet orange marmalade and smoky BBQ sauce gives this dish a bold, sticky glaze that tastes just like your favorite Chinese takeout.
• Kid-Approved – Even picky eaters love this sweet and tangy chicken.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orange marmalade – Adds sweetness and citrus flavor.
• 3/4 cup barbecue sauce – Brings smoky depth and balances the sweetness.
• 1 bag frozen popcorn chicken (or cooked crispy chicken chunks) – Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade if you prefer.

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken
   Prepare the frozen popcorn chicken according to the package directions. Bake it until crispy and golden.
2. Make the Sauce
   While the chicken is cooking, combine the orange marmalade and barbecue sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and heated through. You can simmer it for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Toss and Serve
   Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the top and toss until all the pieces are well coated.
4. Optional Garnish
   Serve over white rice or with steamed vegetables. You can also garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and color.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it up – Add a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make it healthier – Use baked chicken breast chunks instead of fried popcorn chicken.
• Try different BBQ sauces – A smoky or hickory-style BBQ sauce works great, but you can experiment with honey BBQ or even chipotle blends for extra flavor.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish reheats well and can be made ahead for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

This easy 3-ingredient orange chicken is the kind of recipe that proves simple can still be delicious. It’s fast, satisfying, and requires almost no cleanup — ideal for anyone who wants a home-cooked meal without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this quick dinner will hit the spot every time.