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3 Ingredient Orange Chicken – Sweet, Sticky and Incredibly Easy Dinner Made in Minutes

3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. With just three simple ingredients, this recipe delivers tender chicken coated in a glossy, sweet citrus sauce that tastes like takeout—but made at home with minimal effort. This is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, beginner cooks, or quick family dinners. No complicated steps, no extra sauces, and no special equipment—just bold orange flavor, juicy chicken, and a satisfying finish. When you want maximum flavor with minimum work, this recipe is a lifesaver.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs chicken breast or thighs boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce
  • That’s it—only three ingredients for a sweet savory, citrus-forward dish.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2:
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3:
  1. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer.
Step 4:
  1. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
Step 5:
  1. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step 6:
  1. Pour the orange marmalade over the cooked chicken.
Step 7:
  1. Add the soy sauce.
Step 8:
  1. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 9:
  1. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 10:
  1. Remove from heat once the sauce clings nicely to the chicken.
Step 11:
  1. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave
Add a splash of water if sauce thickens too much
🥄 Variations
Spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
Extra orange: Add a little fresh orange zest
Low sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce
Air fryer finish: Cook chicken first, then toss in sauce
(Still delicious—even with extras!)
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this really only 3 ingredients?
Yes, exactly three.
Does it taste like takeout?
Very similar—sweet and sticky.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, they stay extra juicy.
Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely.
Is the sauce very sweet?
Balanced by the soy sauce.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, easily.
Do I need oil?
No, the chicken cooks in its own juices.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, up to 2 months.
What does it pair well with?
Rice, vegetables, or noodles.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it reheats well.
🏁 Conclusion
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is the ultimate fast, foolproof dinner. Sweet, savory, and unbelievably easy, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep in your back pocket for busy days.
Minimal ingredients. Maximum flavor. Zero stress.