“Didn’t we just go out for dinner?” my friend sighed, scrolling through endless takeout options. I had the perfect answer—a homemade treasure that’s quicker to whip up than most meal deliveries: Easy Orange Chicken. This delectable dish is designed for those bustling weeknights when you crave comforting flavors without the fuss. It features tender chicken bathed in a sweet and tangy sauce that’s irresistibly simple—just three ingredients! Within 30 minutes, you can serve a family-friendly meal that beats takeout in taste and love. Whether you’re looking to save some fridge space or simply want to throw together a quick feast, this orange chicken will become a kitchen staple. Ready to take a culinary journey without leaving home? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe
Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients, this Easy Orange Chicken can be on your table in 30 minutes, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the sweet and tangy sauce, creating a delicious meal everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Ingredients: Use this recipe as a base and feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian delight.
Homemade Goodness: Say goodbye to boring takeout; nothing beats the joy of homemade food that tastes much better than fast food.
Looking for other easy recipes? Try these Chicken Enchiladas Savory or a delightful Honey BBQ Chicken for more family favorites!
Easy Orange Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- BBQ Sauce – Provides a sweet and tangy base for the sauce; any sweet BBQ sauce works well—consider hickory-smoked for a smoky touch.
- Sweet Orange Marmalade – Adds the signature orange flavor; can be replaced with any fruit preserves for a unique twist.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor and balances sweetness; swap with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast (boneless and skinless) – The main protein component, giving you tender flavor; consider thighs for a richer taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Coats the chicken to achieve a crispy texture; cornstarch works well for gluten-free alternatives.
- Eggs – Binds the flour to the chicken for a better coating; skip eggs for a lighter version, though the coating may not be as crispy.
- Olive Oil – Used for frying the chicken; any neutral oil like canola or vegetable will work just fine.
With these easy ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating your own Easy Orange Chicken that the whole family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Orange Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Orange Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine your sweet BBQ sauce, sweet orange marmalade, and soy sauce. Whisk the ingredients together over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Continue stirring for about 3–5 minutes until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened, showcasing a beautiful glossy sheen. Remove from heat and set aside while you prep the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by dicing the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. In a bowl, whisk two eggs until well beaten. Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, coating it thoroughly, then dredge in all-purpose flour, ensuring a generous layer. The flour will create a crispiness that’s essential for your Easy Orange Chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil to cover the bottom. Once hot (look for faint ripples in the oil), carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 3–4 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crispy, then gently flip each piece and continue cooking until both sides are beautifully browned and cooked through, about 3–4 more minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
In a mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken pieces and pour over the simmered orange sauce. Use tongs or a spatula to toss the chicken until it’s evenly coated in the sticky, sweet sauce. Serve your delightful Easy Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice and a side of colorful steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
What to Serve with Easy Orange Chicken
Elevate your homemade culinary experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of this dish.
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Steamed White Rice: Serves as a neutral base, soaking up the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully. It’s the classic choice for a reason!
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Garlic Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic add a pop of color and a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the chicken.
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Fried Rice: A savory option that introduces more hearty flavors. The texture and richness of fried rice make it an inviting pairing next to orange chicken.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy bites filled with vegetables offer a satisfying crunch and a hint of spice that contrasts with the sweet chicken.
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Asian Slaw: A refreshing side made with cabbage and carrots, tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. It provides a bright and zesty counterpart to the richness of the chicken.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting, umami-rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange chicken beautifully.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light rice vinegar dressing bring a fresh crunch and contrast nicely with the warm, sticky chicken.
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Sparkling Water: For drinks, since citrus complements the dish, a lightly flavored sparkling water with lime is refreshing and enhances the meal.
For dessert, consider a light citrus sorbet to cleanse the palate after enjoying the sweet and tangy Easy Orange Chicken!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Orange Chicken components are perfect for meal prep, making it a breeze for busy weeknights! You can prepare the orange sauce up to 3 days in advance; just whisk together the BBQ sauce, sweet orange marmalade, and soy sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken can be diced and coated in flour up to 24 hours prior, which helps save time when you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, keep the chicken and sauce separate until you’re ready to combine and serve them. Simply fry the chicken fresh when you’re set to eat, toss in the warmed sauce, and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort!
Easy Orange Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Easy Orange Chicken recipe and make it your own with these fun twists!
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Vegetarian Swap: Substitute chicken with tofu or seitan. It’s a delightful option that’s both satisfying and packed with protein!
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Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas while cooking the chicken for a vibrant, colorful dish that adds nutrition and texture.
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Alternative Citrus: Switch sweet orange marmalade for lemon or lime preserves. This twist brightens the flavor, giving your chicken a refreshing zing.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha during the sauce preparation for a fiery touch that elevates the dish and excites your taste buds.
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Honey Boost: For an extra layer of sweetness, mix in a tablespoon of honey with the sauce. This addition enhances the caramelization of the chicken, making it incredibly mouthwatering.
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Ginger Zest: Incorporate freshly grated ginger when making the sauce for a warm and aromatic flavor. It pairs beautifully with the sweetness and adds depth.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Use a slow cooker to prepare this dish. Simply combine all ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours for juicy, effortlessly flavorful chicken.
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Asian-Inspired Sides: Serve alongside a refreshing Greek Tzatziki Chicken salad or some aromatic garlic green beans for a complete meal!
These variations promise not only excitement at your dinner table but also a chance to explore new flavors and ingredients. Let your culinary creativity shine!
Expert Tips for Easy Orange Chicken
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Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This will help you achieve that coveted crispy texture without making the chicken greasy.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature of the oil and lead to soggy chicken.
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Adjust Flavor: If you prefer a tangier sauce, feel free to add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile of your Easy Orange Chicken.
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Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap out the chicken for tofu or seitan to create a vegetarian version. This recipe adapts beautifully to suit your dietary needs!
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Perfect Coating: For the crispiest result, make sure your chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in the egg wash and flour. This ensures that the sauce clings perfectly after frying.
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Make Ahead: Prep the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. It works great as a quick marinade for other proteins, saving you time on busy nights!
Storage Tips for Easy Orange Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftover Easy Orange Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its flavor and freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then microwave or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
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Avoiding Soggy Chicken: When reheating, keep the chicken pieces separate from the sauce until just before serving to retain their crispy texture.
Easy Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Easy Orange Chicken, I recommend using a sweet BBQ sauce. If you prefer a smoky flavor, hickory-smoked BBQ sauce works wonderfully. You can also experiment with different varieties to match your taste; just make sure it’s not too spicy, as that might overpower the sweetness of the orange.
How should I store leftover Easy Orange Chicken?
To keep your Easy Orange Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents moisture loss and helps retain flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or sauté it in a pan for the best texture.
Can I freeze Easy Orange Chicken, and how?
Yes, you can freeze Easy Orange Chicken! To do this, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring all the air is removed. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat.
Why is my chicken not getting crispy when frying?
This is a common concern! To ensure crispy chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken pieces—look for faint ripples or a shimmer in the oil. Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Lastly, make sure each piece is well-coated in the egg wash and flour for that delicious crispiness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, you can easily make adjustments. Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for gluten-free options. For a nut-free variation, watch out for sauces that may contain nuts. Additionally, if you’re cooking for vegetarians, feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan, which absorbs the flavor beautifully!
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Very! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh chopped chili peppers to the orange sauce while simmering. This will give your Easy Orange Chicken a delightful kick! Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
Delicious Easy Orange Chicken for Quick Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine your sweet BBQ sauce, sweet orange marmalade, and soy sauce. Whisk the ingredients together over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Continue stirring for about 3–5 minutes until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside while you prep the chicken.
- Begin by dicing the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. In a bowl, whisk two eggs until well beaten. Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, coating it thoroughly, then dredge in all-purpose flour.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil to cover the bottom. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 3–4 minutes until the underside is golden brown, then gently flip and cook for 3–4 more minutes until both sides are beautifully browned.
- In a mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken pieces and pour over the simmered orange sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Serve over rice with steamed vegetables.
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