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4-Ingredient Orange Chicken

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This 4-ingredient orange chicken is the ultimate shortcut version of your favorite Chinese-American takeout. Crispy chicken nuggets are tossed in a sweet, tangy, and savory glaze made from orange marmalade, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 5 cups frozen chicken nuggets (about 20–25 pieces)

  • 1 cup orange marmalade (preferably with orange peel bits)

  • ½ cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce (or your favorite smoky BBQ sauce)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)

  • Optional for garnish:

    • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

    • Red pepper flakes (for heat)

  • Optional for serving:

    • Cooked jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles

Instructions

1. Bake the Chicken Nuggets

  • Preheat your oven according to the instructions on your nugget packaging (typically 400°F / 200°C).

  • Arrange the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet.

  • Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

  • For extra crispiness, cook them in an air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.

2. Prepare the Orange Sauce

  • While the nuggets are baking, place a medium saucepan over medium heat.

  • Add the orange marmalade, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce to the pan.

  • Stir to combine and let it simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.

  • Be careful not to overcook the sauce, as marmalade can caramelize quickly.

3. Toss Chicken in Sauce

  • Remove the baked nuggets from the oven and allow them to cool for 1–2 minutes.

  • Add the nuggets to the saucepan with the sauce or place both in a large mixing bowl.

  • Toss well until every piece is fully coated in the orange glaze.

4. Serve

  • Serve hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles.

  • Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

  • Make it Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper to the sauce while simmering.

  • Low-Sugar Option: Choose a low-sugar BBQ sauce and marmalade.

  • Vegetarian Swap: Use air-fried tofu cubes or meatless nuggets.

  • Gluten-Free Tip: Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free nuggets.

  • Meal Prep Tip: Store the sauce separately and reheat both before serving to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/4-ingredient-orange-chicken/