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This homemade orange chicken recipe has revolutionized my weeknight dinner routine, combining the sweet-tangy flavor of takeout orange chicken with incredible simplicity. Using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that satisfies those Chinese food cravings without the wait or expense.
I discovered this hack during a particularly busy week when my family was craving takeout but our budget was tight. The first time I served it, my children thought I had secretly ordered from our favorite Chinese restaurant!
Ingredients
- Precooked chicken nuggets: the foundation of this recipe, providing crispy texture without the hassle of breading and frying chicken from scratch
- Sweet orange marmalade: delivers authentic orange flavor with bits of zest that mimic traditional orange chicken
- BBQ sauce: adds depth, smokiness and tanginess that balances the sweetness
- Soy sauce: brings essential umami and saltiness that makes this dish truly crave worthy
- Sesame oil: optional but recommended for that authentic Chinese restaurant aroma and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cook your precooked chicken nuggets according to the package directions, ensuring they become perfectly crispy. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the sauce is what makes this dish special. For best results, use an air fryer if available for maximum crispiness.
- Create the Orange Sauce:
- Combine orange marmalade, BBQ sauce, soy sauce and sesame oil in a microwave safe bowl. The proportions are crucial here. The marmalade provides sweetness and orange flavor, while the BBQ sauce adds complexity and tanginess. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and microwave for exactly 45 seconds. This heating process helps the ingredients meld together perfectly.
- Coat the Chicken:
- While the chicken is still hot and crispy, immediately toss it with the warm orange BBQ sauce mixture. Work quickly but gently to ensure even coating without making the nuggets soggy. The heat from the chicken helps the sauce adhere beautifully.
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The orange marmalade is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I first tried it when I was out of orange juice and desperate for a quick dinner solution. The bits of orange zest in the marmalade actually create a more authentic texture than many traditional orange chicken recipes that use just juice or concentrate.
Serving Suggestions
This orange chicken pairs beautifully with steamed white rice which soaks up the delicious sauce. For a complete takeout experience, serve alongside steamed broccoli or a simple side of edamame. The contrast between the sweet chicken and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that feels like a special treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
While this dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave in 30second intervals until just warmed through. The chicken will lose some crispiness but the flavor remains delicious. I often make a double batch specifically for lunch meal prep during busy weeks.
Easy Customizations
Feel free to enhance this basic recipe with additional ingredients based on your preferences. Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat, minced garlic or ginger for extra flavor dimension, or garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for visual appeal and texture. You can also substitute chicken tenders or popcorn chicken based on what you have available.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade chicken nuggets?
Yes, you can use homemade chicken nuggets. Just make sure they are fully cooked before mixing them with the sauce.
- → What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, like Sweet Baby Ray's, complements the orange marmalade perfectly, but you can experiment with your favorite brand.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh to maintain the crispiness of the chicken, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat before serving.
- → What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- → Can I make it spicier?
Yes, you can add a dash of hot sauce, chili flakes, or sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.