Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal to impress your family or friends? Look no further! This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is the perfect solution. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time.
Why Make This Recipe
This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is a fantastic dish for busy weeknights or weekends when you want something tasty without the fuss. The unique blend of sweet orange marmalade and soy sauce creates a flavorful sauce that beautifully coats the chicken. Plus, with just three main ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and requires little prep time. It’s not just delicious; it’s a great way to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken
Making this dish is as simple as it gets! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweet orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3-4 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 cup flour or cornstarch (or a mix of both)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the sweet orange marmalade and soy sauce. Stir until well mixed; set it aside.
- Coat the Chicken: Take your cubed chicken and coat it evenly in flour or cornstarch, depending on your preference.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium heat and add the coated chicken cubes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the orange sauce over the chicken in the pan. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky, coating the chicken beautifully.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked thoroughly and sauce is sticky, serve hot on a plate.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken
This 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is versatile, so you can serve it in several ways. Here are a few ideas:
- Over Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of white rice or brown rice. The sauce pairs wonderfully with the rice, soaking in all the flavors.
- With Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a nutritious balance.
- As a Wrap: Fill a tortilla or wrap with the chicken and some fresh veggies for a delicious handheld meal.
How to Store 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken
If you have any leftovers, storing them is a breeze! Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or heat it gently on the stove until warmed through.
For those wondering about freezing, you can freeze the cooked orange chicken for up to 2 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll be all set!
Tips for Success with 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken
- Chicken: Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it longer after adding the orange sauce to the chicken.
- Taste Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the ratio of soy sauce to marmalade based on your taste preference for sweetness or saltiness.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Adding chopped green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish can add a fresh flavor and visual appeal.
Variations
While this 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken is fantastic as is, here are some variations you might want to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
- Pineapple: Throw in some pineapple chunks to enhance the tropical flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu for a tasty vegetarian alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I don’t have orange marmalade?
You can substitute with another type of fruit preserves like apricot or peach. Just make sure it has a similar consistency.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and cook when you’re ready to serve.
Is this orange chicken healthy?
While it’s a bit indulgent, you can make it healthier by using lower-sugar marmalade and incorporating more vegetables in your meal.
For more easy recipes and delicious dishes, check out More recipes on quickmaderecipes.com for a variety of ideas to suit every palate! Enjoy your cooking with this simple and delightful 3-Ingredient Orange Chicken.