4-Ingredient Orange Chicken

If you’ve ever craved that sweet, tangy, crispy orange chicken from your favorite takeout spot but didn’t want to deal with the heavy frying and long prep time, then this is your answer! Welcome to the world of 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken. It’s quick, it’s simple, and oh boy, is it flavorful.

The crispy chicken pieces, tossed in that perfect, sticky-sweet orange glaze, will have you feeling like you’re dining at a restaurant—but in the comfort of your own home. Plus, it comes together with just four ingredients, making it the ultimate no-fuss, flavor-packed dish. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this one on repeat.

Why You’ll Love 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken

This recipe is going to become your go-to when you’re craving something fast, tasty, and not too complicated. Here’s why this orange chicken deserves a spot in your weeknight rotation:

Quick & Easy

It’s literally the quickest orange chicken you’ll ever make. You don’t need hours of prep or a ton of ingredients. Just a few pantry staples and you’re good to go.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

It’s amazing how just four ingredients can come together to create something so delicious. Every bite is a balance of sweet and tangy that will have you coming back for more. Plus, there’s no need to deal with complicated sauces or marinades. This recipe keeps it simple, and it’s a game-changer!

Budget-Friendly

This dish is perfect for anyone trying to cook on a budget without compromising on flavor. The ingredients are simple, easy to find, and won’t break the bank. You can have a restaurant-quality meal for a fraction of the price!

Customizable

Want to add a little extra spice? Toss in some red pepper flakes. Prefer a richer sauce? Add a spoonful of honey or brown sugar for an extra layer of sweetness. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to tweak and make your own.

Family-Friendly

This is a crowd-pleaser for sure! The kids will love the crispy chicken and sweet orange flavor, and adults will appreciate how easy it is to make. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting friends, this dish will be a hit.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic behind this simple but flavorful recipe. You only need four ingredients to make it work!

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the base of this dish. They cook quickly, stay juicy, and absorb the orange sauce beautifully.

Orange Marmalade

The star of the show. Orange marmalade is the perfect base for the sauce—sweet, tangy, and bursting with citrus flavor.

Soy Sauce

A splash of soy sauce adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness of the orange marmalade.

Cornstarch

For the crispy chicken! Coating the chicken in cornstarch before cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! gives it that delicious, crispy exterior that pairs so perfectly with the sticky sauce.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to get cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support!? Here’s how to whip up your 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces, making sure they’re roughly the same size for even cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support!. Toss the pieces in cornstarch to coat them well. This is what gives the chicken that crisp, golden texture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once it’s hot, add the chicken pieces and cook them in batches (if necessary) to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the orange marmalade and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until each piece is well-coated and sticky. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, letting the sauce absorb into the chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your orange chicken hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions if you like. It’s perfect over steamed rice or with a side of veggies. Enjoy every sticky, crispy bite!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the nutrition breakdown for a single serving of 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

(Note: Nutrition facts will vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken

This dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides that will complement its sweet and savory flavor.

Steamed Rice

A classic pairing! Serve this orange chicken over fluffy steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

Add some color and crunch with stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. They’ll balance out the richness of the chicken.

Noodles

For a fun twist, try serving this chicken over noodles. The sweet sauce and crispy chicken work so well with a bowl of warm, savory noodles.

As a Standalone

If you’re craving something light but satisfying, you can enjoy this orange chicken on its own with a side of fresh greens.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to take your 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken to the next level:

Make It Spicy

If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce, or drizzle some chili oil over the chicken for an extra kick.

Sweeten It Up

Want to amp up the sweetness? Add a spoonful of honey or brown sugar to the sauce, and it’ll give your chicken a lovely, rich sweetness.

Make It Gluten-Free

To make this dish gluten-free, swap out the soy sauce for tamari and make sure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

Store It Properly

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A1: It’s best to use fresh chicken for the best texture, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed and dried off before coating in cornstarch.

Q2: Can I make this dish in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
A2: Yes! You can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, then toss it in the sauce.

Q3: Can I use a different type of fruit preserve instead of orange marmalade?
A3: Absolutely! You could try using apricot jam or even pineapple preserves for a different flavor profile.

Q4: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A4: To thicken the sauce, simply let it simmer a little longer, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A5: Yes! You can stir in some sautéed or steamed vegetables, like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas, for added flavor and texture.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q8: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A8: Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and store it in individual portions for the week. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Q9: How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
A9: For extra crispiness, make sure the chicken is well-coated in cornstarch, and don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking. This will give it the best crisp!

Q10: Can I make this dish without cornstarch?
A10: You could use flour or even a gluten-free flour blend in place of cornstarch, but the texture may be slightly different.

Conclusion

This 4-Ingredient Orange Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can lead to spectacular results. Crispy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings—without any of the hassle. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick dinner, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious, satisfying meal. Enjoy!

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