Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s fast, simple, and delivers big flavor with almost no effort. With just three ingredients, I get a glossy, crave-worthy glaze that coats every bite of crispy chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even serving at parties with some toothpicks for easy snacking.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Frozen popcorn chicken (or any cooked, crispy chicken pieces)
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Orange marmalade
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BBQ sauce (I like using a smoky or honey BBQ variety)
directions
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I cook the frozen popcorn chicken according to the package instructions until it’s hot and crispy.
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While the chicken bakes, I mix the orange marmalade and BBQ sauce together in a saucepan over medium heat.
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I stir until the mixture is warmed through and combined into a thick glaze.
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Once the chicken is done, I toss it in the sauce until it’s completely coated.
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I serve it immediately over rice or with steamed veggies on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
When I want it a little spicier, I add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. I’ve also swapped the popcorn chicken for grilled chicken breast chunks or even meatballs for something different. For a citrus twist, I stir in a little fresh orange zest or juice to brighten the flavor.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I microwave the chicken until warmed through, though I sometimes pop it back in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again.
FAQs
Can I make this with homemade chicken?
Yes, I often use breaded or grilled chicken breast pieces if I have the time. As long as it’s fully cooked, it works perfectly.
What kind of BBQ sauce is best?
I usually go for a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, but any style works. Honey BBQ or spicy BBQ both taste great with the orange marmalade.
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Yes, I’ve made it by adding cooked chicken and the sauce to the slow cooker and keeping it on low for 1–2 hours to let the flavors blend.
Is orange marmalade the same as orange jam?
They’re similar, but marmalade has bits of orange peel and a slightly more bitter flavor, which balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce nicely.
What can I serve with this orange chicken?
I usually serve it over white rice, jasmine rice, or with stir-fried vegetables. It also makes a great filling for lettuce wraps or sliders.
Conclusion
3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ) is my go-to dinner when I need something fast, flavorful, and totally satisfying. It tastes like takeout but is made right in my kitchen with minimal effort. Whether I’m cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is always a winner.
Print3 Ingredient Orange Chicken (Orange Marmalade BBQ)
Sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy—this 3 ingredient orange chicken with BBQ sauce and orange marmalade is the perfect quick dinner idea.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Skillet, One-Pan
- Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orange marmalade
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or cooking spray.
Cook chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade and BBQ sauce.
Pour sauce over chicken in the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
Simmer 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to the chicken.
Serve warm over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
For a spicier version, add 1–2 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce to the mix.
Works well in the slow cooker: cook chicken on LOW 4 hours, then stir in sauce and cook 30 minutes more.
Use chicken tenders or pre-cooked nuggets for a shortcut.
Great for meal prep—keeps in fridge up to 3 days.
