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Easy 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken – Sweet, Sticky & Weeknight Magic

When you need a fast, foolproof dinner that tastes like a takeout favorite, this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is the answer. Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly sticky, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort and just three simple ingredients. No complicated prep, no long ingredient list—just a cozy, family-friendly meal that comes together in minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, beginner cooks, or anyone who loves quick comfort food. Juicy chicken is coated in a glossy orange sauce that balances sweetness with citrus brightness, creating a dish that’s satisfying, crave-worthy, and incredibly easy to repeat.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Just three ingredients create bold orange chicken flavor.
  • 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs bite-sized
  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • ½ cup soy sauce

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring cup
  • Optional but helpful:
  • Non-stick pan for easy cleanup

Method
 

  1. Follow these simple steps for the easiest orange chicken ever.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces.
  3. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly golden.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
  1. Lower heat to medium.
  2. Pour in orange marmalade and soy sauce.
  3. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces.
Step 3: Simmer and Glaze
  1. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Sauce will thicken and become glossy as it cooks.
Step 4: Serve
  1. Remove from heat once the sauce coats the chicken evenly.
  2. Serve hot.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Add a splash of water if sauce thickens too much.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended due to sauce texture.
🥄 Variations
Even with three ingredients, you can tweak the flavor:
Less Sweet
Use slightly less marmalade.
Extra Tangy
Add a spoonful of fresh orange juice.
Spicy Touch
Sprinkle black pepper or paprika before serving.
Crispy Chicken Option
Lightly pan-sear chicken until golden before adding sauce.
Chicken Thigh Version
Use thighs for extra juiciness.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can this really work with only three ingredients?
Yes, the marmalade and soy sauce create a balanced glaze.
Is this dish very sweet?
It’s sweet but balanced by the savory soy sauce.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely, they stay extra juicy.
Do I need oil for cooking?
A non-stick pan usually doesn’t require it.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s sweet and mild.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan.
Will the sauce thicken naturally?
Yes, as it simmers.
Can I bake this instead?
Pan cooking works best for glazing.
Does it taste like takeout?
Very similar, but fresher.
Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well.
🏁 Conclusion
This 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken proves that incredible flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list. Sweet, sticky, and ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the perfect recipe for busy nights when you still want something delicious and comforting.
Once you try it, this easy orange chicken will become one of your most repeated dinners.