Craving a delicious takeout-style meal without the hassle? This easy orange chicken recipe with just 3 ingredients is the perfect solution! It requires minimal prep and cooks quickly, giving you a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of tender chicken, tangy orange sauce, and a touch of sweetness creates an irresistible meal.
Whether you need a quick dinner or a family-friendly dish, this recipe delivers. Plus, you only need three simple ingredients no complicated shopping required. Let’s dive into how you can make this easy and delicious orange chicken in no time!
Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken Recipe
Quick and Easy – Ready in Under 30 Minutes
This recipe is perfect when you need a delicious meal in a hurry. With just a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in less than 30 minutes. Start by cooking the chicken until golden brown, then toss it with the orange sauce and let it simmer. As the sauce thickens, it coats the chicken beautifully, creating a flavorful glaze. There’s no need for marinating, deep frying, or complicated prep just quick, easy, and delicious!
Uses Pantry Staples – No Complicated Ingredients
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You only need three basic ingredients that you likely already have at home:
- Chicken – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best results.
- Orange Sauce – Store-bought orange marmalade, orange juice, or a pre-made orange chicken sauce works great.
- Final Ingredient – This can be BBQ sauce, soy sauce, or honey to enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.
There’s no need to search for specialty items or spend extra time shopping. Just grab what’s in your pantry, and you’re good to go!
Perfect for Meal Prep or a Last-Minute Dinner
This dish is not only quick to make but also perfect for meal prep. Cook a batch ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even tastier.
If you need a last-minute dinner, this recipe is a lifesaver. It requires minimal effort and doesn’t demand long cooking times. Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal in no time. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a fast dinner, this 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients Needed for the Best Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
Chicken – Best Cuts to Use (Breasts, Thighs, or Tenders)
Choosing the right cut of chicken is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Here are the best options:
- Chicken Breasts – Lean and high in protein, they cook quickly and stay tender when cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Chicken Thighs – Juicier and more flavorful, they remain tender even if slightly overcooked.
- Chicken Tenders – Great for a softer, more delicate texture, making them ideal for kids or a lighter meal.
For the best results, cut the chicken into even-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking and better sauce absorption.
Orange Sauce – Store-Bought vs. Homemade Options
The sauce is what gives this dish its signature sweet and tangy flavor. You can choose between:
- Store-Bought Orange Sauce – A convenient option with a well-balanced taste. Look for brands with natural ingredients for the best flavor.
- Homemade Orange Sauce – If you prefer a fresh, customized taste, mix orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, and a thickening agent like cornstarch. This allows you to control sweetness and acidity.
Both options work well, but homemade sauce lets you adjust the flavors to your liking.
Third Ingredient – Options Like BBQ Sauce, Honey, or Soy Sauce for Extra Flavor
The third ingredient enhances the overall taste and balances the orange sauce. Here are some great choices:
- BBQ Sauce – Adds a smoky depth and mild sweetness.
- Honey – Boosts the sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce beautifully.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor and balances the sweetness with a savory touch.
Depending on your taste preference, you can experiment with these ingredients to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Orange Chicken
. Prepare the Chicken – Cutting, Seasoning, and Prepping
Properly prepping the chicken is the first step to achieving the best texture and flavor. Follow these steps:
- Choose your chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders work best.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces: Aim for uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. This helps the chicken cook through without drying out.
- Pat dry with paper towels: Removing excess moisture ensures a better sear and crispier texture.
- Season lightly: Since the sauce provides most of the flavor, a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhances the taste without overpowering the dish.
- Coat in cornstarch (optional): Tossing the chicken in a light layer of cornstarch before cooking creates a crispy exterior and helps the sauce stick better.
Cook the Chicken – Best Methods (Stovetop, Air Fryer, or Oven)
Depending on your preference, you can cook the chicken using different methods. Here’s how to do it right:
Stovetop (Best for Quick Cooking & Sauce Absorption)
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Air Fryer (Best for a Crispy Texture Without Oil)
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly coat the chicken with oil or cooking spray.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Oven (Best for Large Batches & Hands-Free Cooking)
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chicken in a single layer.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Each method works well, but the stovetop method allows the sauce to coat the chicken better, making it the top choice for maximum flavor.
Add the Sauce – How to Coat and Cook the Chicken Perfectly
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to add the signature sweet and tangy orange sauce. Follow these steps for the best coating:
- Lower the heat to medium. This prevents the sauce from burning while allowing it to thicken gradually.
- Pour in the orange sauce (store-bought or homemade) along with your chosen third ingredient (BBQ sauce, honey, or soy sauce).
- Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the sauce reduces, it clings to the chicken, creating a thick and flavorful glaze.
Pro Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice. If too thin, let it cook a little longer to reduce.
Final Touches – Letting It Thicken & Serving Suggestions
For a perfect finish, follow these last steps:
- Let the sauce thicken. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit for 1-2 minutes—this helps the glaze fully set.
- Garnish for extra flavor. Sprinkle sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or red pepper flakes for added texture and taste.
- Pair with the right sides. Serve your orange chicken over:
- Steamed rice – Absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Fried rice or noodles – Adds extra texture and flavor.
- Steamed veggies – Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas complement the dish well.
Tips for Making the Best Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
Best Type of Chicken for This Dish
The type of chicken you use can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your dish. Here’s how to choose the best cut for your orange chicken:
- Chicken Breasts (Best for Lean & Tender Meat):
Chicken breasts are the most common choice for this dish because they cook quickly and remain tender when cut into bite-sized pieces. They also absorb the sauce well without becoming greasy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, this is the way to go.Tip: For extra juiciness, use chicken breasts with the skin on and remove the skin before cooking. - Chicken Thighs (Best for Flavor & Juiciness):
If you prefer a more flavorful, moist chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the way to go. Thighs have a higher fat content, which means they stay tender and juicy even when cooked slightly longer. They also have a rich flavor that complements the tangy orange sauce beautifully.Tip: Chicken thighs may take a little longer to cook, so make sure to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. - Chicken Tenders (Best for Soft Texture & Quick Cooking):
If you’re cooking for kids or want a softer texture, chicken tenders are a great choice. They cook quickly, and their texture is much more delicate than breasts or thighs. Since they’re smaller, they absorb the sauce faster, giving each bite a burst of flavor.Tip: If using tenders, be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry quickly.
How to Make the Sauce Thicker or Spicier
The sauce is what makes this orange chicken shine, and you can easily adjust it to your preferences. Here’s how to modify the texture and heat:
- How to Thicken the Sauce:
- Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1-2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The cornstarch will help the sauce cling to the chicken and form a glossy finish.
- Simmer Longer: Another way to thicken the sauce is to simply let it simmer uncovered. As it cooks down, the liquid will reduce, and the sauce will naturally thicken. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- How to Make the Sauce Spicier:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili flakes to the sauce as it simmers. This will give it a nice heat that balances the sweetness of the orange.
- Hot Sauce or Sriracha: For an extra kick, stir in a few drops of hot sauce or sriracha. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust as needed to suit your spice level.
- Fresh Chilies: If you want a fresh, bold heat, slice some fresh jalapeños or bird’s eye chilies and add them directly to the sauce as it simmers. The longer they cook, the spicier the sauce will become.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Orange chicken stores well and can be reheated without losing flavor. Here’s how to store and reheat your dish properly:
- Storage Tips:
- Cool it down first: Let your orange chicken cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, keeping the chicken from becoming soggy.
- Airtight containers: Store your leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The chicken will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freeze for longer storage: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to label and date the container for easy tracking.
- Reheating Tips:
- Stovetop: The stovetop is the best way to reheat orange chicken while keeping the sauce intact. Place the chicken in a pan over medium heat, and stir occasionally to prevent burning. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of orange juice or water to loosen it up.
- Microwave: For quick reheating, place the chicken in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Oven: To reheat in the oven, place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Pro Tip: For even more flavor, reheating orange chicken in the pan with a splash of fresh sauce or a squeeze of orange juice can bring it back to life and keep it tasting fresh.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Chicken Recipe 3 Ingredients – Rice, Noodles, or Veggies
When making an easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the dish. Here are some top side options that perfectly complement the sweet and tangy flavor of your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients:
- Rice (Perfect for Soaking Up the Sauce)
- White rice: White rice is a classic pairing for your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients. Its fluffy texture absorbs the delicious orange sauce and provides a satisfying base.
- Brown rice: For a heartier option with added fiber, brown rice offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the orange sauce.
- Jasmine rice: Fragrant jasmine rice adds a touch of floral aroma that enhances the flavors in your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients, creating a more aromatic meal.
- Fried rice: For extra flavor and texture, serve your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients with fried rice made from leftover rice. This adds savory depth to the dish.
Noodles (For a Fun Twist)
- Lo-mein or Udon: Lo-mein or udon noodles are chewy and can soak up the orange sauce, giving your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients an added layer of flavor.
- Rice noodles: If you prefer a gluten-free option, rice noodles pair perfectly with your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients and provide a soft, delicate texture.
- Soba noodles: Soba noodles add a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the orange sauce, making them a great pairing for your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
- Steamed Veggies (For a Healthy & Balanced Meal)
- Broccoli: Broccoli, steamed until tender, is a great complement to the sweet orange sauce in your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients, adding a nice crunch and balance.
- Carrots or zucchini: Carrots or zucchini, when steamed or sautéed, are a light and fresh pairing that adds variety and color to your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
Variations of Your Easy Orange Chicken Recipe 3 Ingredients – Make It Spicy, Keto-Friendly, or Gluten-Free
You can easily tweak your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients to suit your dietary needs or add exciting flavor variations:
- Making It Spicy
- Add red pepper flakes: To give your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chili paste. Start with a pinch and adjust to your heat preference.
- Sriracha or hot sauce: A tablespoon of Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce can elevate your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients, adding bold heat that perfectly complements the sweetness.
- Fresh chilies: For an authentic spicy flavor, add sliced fresh chilies like jalapeños or bird’s eye chilies to the sauce. The fresh heat boosts the overall flavor of your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
- Keto-Friendly Version
- Modify the sauce: For a keto-friendly orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients, use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit to replace the sugar in the sauce.
- Pair with cauliflower rice: Swap out regular rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly base to go with your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
- Gluten-Free Version
- Tamari or coconut aminos: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version of your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
- Serve with rice noodles or cauliflower rice: Both rice noodles and cauliflower rice are gluten-free options that complement your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients perfectly.
Alternative Proteins for Your Easy Orange Chicken Recipe 3 Ingredients – Try Shrimp or Tofu
If you want to switch things up, try these protein options with your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients:
- Shrimp (For a Seafood Twist)
- Shrimp prep: For a lighter twist, use peeled and deveined shrimp instead of chicken. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink, then toss them in the orange sauce for a quick seafood version of your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
- Pair with noodles or rice: Serve your shrimp variation of easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients with noodles or rice for a complete meal.
- Tofu (For a Vegetarian or Vegan Option)
- Crispy tofu: Use firm tofu, press out excess moisture, and toss it in cornstarch before pan-frying or baking until crispy. Toss in the sauce to create a vegetarian version of your easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients.
- Serve with cauliflower rice: Pair your tofu easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients with cauliflower rice for a plant-based, low-carb meal.
Conclusion
This easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients is the perfect solution when you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. With just three ingredients, you can have a delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes that will satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone asking for more. It’s a fantastic meal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even impressing guests with minimal effort.
We encourage you to give this easy orange chicken recipe 3 ingredients a try and share your experience in the comments below. Let us know how it turned out and any fun twists you added to make it your own! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends or subscribe to our blog for more easy, tasty recipes.
For more simple meal ideas with few ingredients, check out our easy ground chicken recipes with few ingredients to expand your recipe collection!