3-Ingredient Orange Chicken: Easy Orange Marmalade BBQ Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that’s both quick and delicious is key. This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken, made with orange marmalade and BBQ sauce, checks all the boxes. It’s sweet, tangy, and savory with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this dish is a game-changer.

Why 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken?

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you don’t have the time or energy to cook a complicated meal. With just three simple ingredients—chicken, orange marmalade, and BBQ sauce—you can create a flavorful dish that’s sure to please. The combination of orange marmalade and BBQ sauce gives the chicken a unique, zesty flavor that’s sweet with a touch of smokiness.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and delicious orange chicken:

Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Orange Marmalade: 1/2 cup

BBQ Sauce: 1/2 cup (choose your favorite brand or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with a little salt and pepper, if desired. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. You can also grill the chicken for added flavor.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, mix the orange marmalade and BBQ sauce together in a small bowl. The orange marmalade brings a sweet, citrusy flavor, while the BBQ sauce adds depth and smokiness.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the orange marmalade BBQ sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is thoroughly coated and the sauce is heated through, it’s ready to serve. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile meal for any night of the week. Here are a few serving ideas:

Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or snap peas make a healthy and colorful side dish.

Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked noodles for an Asian-inspired meal.

Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

Tips for Success

Customize the Flavor: If you like your chicken a bit spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Use a Grill: For a smoky, charred flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet.

Make it Sticky: If you prefer a thicker, stickier sauce, let it simmer on low heat a bit longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.

Versatile: You can serve this chicken with a variety of sides or even use it as a filling for tacos or sandwiches.

Flavorful: The combination of orange marmalade and BBQ sauce creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is proof that you don’t need a lot of ingredients to make a delicious meal. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the bold flavors of orange marmalade and BBQ sauce, makes it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your quick and easy, flavorful dinner tonight!