Introduction

If you’ve ever craved the sticky-sweet goodness of orange chicken but didn’t want to deal with deep frying or an ingredient list a mile long, you’re in the right place. This Easy 5-Ingredient Orange Chicken recipe is the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with takeout. It’s fast, flavorful, and so simple you’ll have it memorized after one or two tries.

What makes this orange chicken stand out? You only need five main ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen—and a single pan. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of savory, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

So if you’ve got some chicken, a jar of orange marmalade, and your favorite BBQ sauce lying around, you’re already halfway there. Let’s make dinner exciting again—with almost no effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

There’s a lot to love about this dish, but let’s start with the biggest win: it’s easy. Like, really easy. We’re talking about a meal that comes together in under 30 minutes and only uses five ingredients. No fancy techniques, no obscure sauces—just straightforward, real food that tastes amazing.

It’s also flexible. You can make it as sweet or as spicy as you like. Don’t feel like chopping chicken? Swap in frozen nuggets or even tofu. Want a dinner that doesn’t dirty every pan in the house? This one’s cooked entirely in one skillet. Cleanup’s a breeze, and the results are delicious.

And yes—it tastes just like your favorite takeout version, only fresher, faster, and a whole lot more budget-friendly.

Suitable For

This recipe is ideal for just about anyone. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, trying to impress a date with your “effortless” cooking skills, or just need something quick after work, this chicken fits the bill.

If you’re new to cooking, don’t worry. The steps are simple and forgiving, and I’ll walk you through everything. It’s also great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch. And if you’re feeding someone with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to swap out ingredients to suit your needs.

Ingredients for Easy 5-Ingredient Orange Chicken

Core Ingredients

Here’s the short and sweet list of what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• Chicken (1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless thighs or breasts) – Cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are juicy and flavorful, while breasts are leaner and cook quickly.

• Orange marmalade (½ cup) – This is the key to that signature citrusy sweetness. Apricot preserves also work if you want a slightly different flavor.

• BBQ sauce (⅓ cup) – Use your favorite brand, whether it’s smoky, spicy, or sweet. This adds depth and balances the citrus.

• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) – Just enough to bring in that salty umami goodness.

• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon, optional) – Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect sticky consistency.

That’s it—five ingredients, zero stress.

Substitutions and Tips

• Orange Marmalade: Don’t have any on hand? Apricot jam or even a bit of honey with orange zest can work in a pinch.

• BBQ Sauce: Feel free to play with flavors. A smoky version adds richness, while a sweeter one makes it more kid-friendly.

• Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute.

• Cornstarch: Totally optional. If you want a thicker sauce that clings to the chicken, whisk it in with the other wet ingredients.

• Chicken: You can even use pre-cooked or frozen popcorn chicken if you’re really short on time.

This recipe is forgiving. Mix, match, and make it yours.

Best Chicken Cut for Orange Chicken

When it comes to choosing chicken for this dish, both thighs and breasts work beautifully—it really depends on your preference.

Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them a little. They soak up the sauce well and stay tender. On the other hand, chicken breasts cook quickly and are a bit leaner, which is great if you’re watching your fat intake or just prefer the texture.

If you’re in a rush or want to skip the prep altogether, pre-cooked chicken like frozen nuggets or popcorn chicken can be tossed right into the sauce. It won’t be quite the same as pan-cooked fresh chicken, but it’s still a delicious shortcut.

Tip: No matter which cut you choose, try to dice the pieces evenly so everything cooks at the same pace.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Must-Have Tools

• Non-stick skillet or sauté pan – This is where everything comes together. A good-quality skillet helps avoid burning and makes cleanup easier.

• Whisk – For combining the sauce ingredients until they’re smooth and lump-free.

• Spatula or tongs – To stir and flip the chicken without shredding it.

• Knife and cutting board – For slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Nice-to-Have Tools

• Rice cooker or Instant Pot – If you’re serving this over rice, these tools can save you time and multitasking stress.

• Measuring cups and spoons – For nailing that perfect sauce ratio every time.

• Meal prep containers – If you’re making a double batch for the week, these will keep your portions neat and fresh.

How to Make Easy 5-Ingredient Orange Chicken

Let’s walk through this step-by-step. Don’t worry—this isn’t one of those recipes where “easy” still means 10 different pans and a sink full of dishes. Everything happens in one skillet, and it all comes together faster than it takes to get through a drive-thru.

Whether you’re new to cooking or just tired of complicated meals, this is the recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized chunks. Try to keep them around the same size so they cook evenly.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a small drizzle of oil (if needed) and toss in your chicken pieces. Let them cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on the outside and fully cooked inside. You’ll know they’re done when there’s no pink in the center and the juices run clear.

If you notice any excess liquid in the pan, feel free to drain it. You want the sauce to stick, not get diluted.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Give the chicken a little space so it can brown rather than steam.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, grab a bowl and whisk together your sauce ingredients:

• Orange marmalade

• BBQ sauce

• Soy sauce

• Cornstarch (if using)

Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined. That’s your magic sauce—it’s tangy, sweet, sticky, and packed with flavor. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce as it heats, but if you don’t have it, no problem. The sugars in the marmalade and BBQ sauce will still give you that thick, glossy finish.

Tip: If you like it spicy, this is the moment to mix in a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or a squirt of Sriracha.

Step 3: Simmer and Coat

Once your chicken is cooked and the pan is looking pretty dry, pour the sauce mixture right into the skillet. Stir to coat all the chicken pieces evenly, then lower the heat a bit and let everything simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes.

You’ll see the sauce begin to bubble and thicken, transforming into that signature sticky glaze. Stir every now and then so nothing sticks or burns.

Tip: If your sauce gets too thick, just splash in a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Now it’s time to plate. Spoon the glossy orange chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even noodles if that’s what you have on hand.

Finish with a sprinkle of green onions, sesame seeds, or a pinch of red chili flakes if you’re in the mood for heat. These little touches add a burst of color and flavor, and they make the dish look like you’ve been cooking for hours—even though we both know you haven’t.

Tips for Success

This recipe is straightforward, but a few small details can take it from good to restaurant-level:

• Use medium heat. High heat can burn the sugars in the marmalade and BBQ sauce quickly. Gentle bubbling is your sweet spot.

• Thighs vs. breasts. Thighs stay juicy and are harder to overcook, but breasts are leaner and work just as well if you prefer them.

• Don’t rush the sauce. Let it simmer so the flavors can deepen and the texture gets nice and sticky.

• Double the batch. This reheats beautifully, so make extra and save yourself from cooking tomorrow.

How to Store Easy 5-Ingredient Orange Chicken

This dish doesn’t just taste great fresh—it stores and reheats like a champ. Here’s how to keep it tasting just as good the next day.

At Room Temperature

Once cooked, don’t leave the chicken out longer than two hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow, and no one wants that.

In the Refrigerator

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring the sauce back to life.

Freezing Tips

Orange chicken is freezer-friendly. Just let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It’ll last for up to two months.

To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in a skillet or microwave. The sauce may thicken a bit more, but it’s still delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, absolutely. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan. If you’re using frozen popcorn chicken or nuggets, cook them according to package directions, then toss them in the sauce.

What if I don’t have orange marmalade?

Apricot preserves are a great substitute. You can also use honey mixed with a little orange juice and zest if you want to get creative.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default. The base version is sweet and savory, but you can easily add spice by stirring in some chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, or Sriracha.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, and it works great for meal prep. Make a double batch and portion it into containers with rice or noodles. Store in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Easy 5-Ingredient Orange Chicken, try these flavorful and comforting meals next:

• Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: Creamy, buttery, and packed with flavor.

• Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken: Another 5-ingredient wonder, slow-cooked to perfection.

• Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A simple, cozy dinner option everyone will love.

• Pineapple Chicken Wings Recipe: Sweet, sticky, and great for game day or dinner.

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers: Quick, crispy chicken with a savory twist.

Conclusion

This Easy 5-Ingredient Orange Chicken is one of those recipes that proves dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be satisfying. It’s quick, delicious, and incredibly versatile—and you can pull it off any night of the week.

So the next time you’re staring at your fridge wondering what to make, remember this: you only need five ingredients and about 30 minutes. From kitchen to table, it’s a warm, comforting meal the whole family will love.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your spin on it. Extra spice? Added veggies? We’d love to know how you made it your own.

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