Looking for a quick and easy meal? This 3 ingredient orange chicken recipe is your answer! With just boneless chicken thighs, orange marmalade, and soy sauce, you can whip up a delicious dish in no time. Perfect for busy evenings or a last-minute dinner, this recipe is flavorful and very simple. Let’s dive in and make your next meal a hit!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– Boneless Chicken Thighs
– Orange Marmalade
– Soy Sauce
The main ingredients for this quick orange chicken dish are simple yet flavorful. First, you need boneless chicken thighs. They cook quickly and stay juicy. Next, orange marmalade gives a sweet and tangy taste. It adds a bright flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken. Lastly, soy sauce brings a savory note to the dish. Together, these three ingredients create a tasty meal in no time.
Recommended Equipment
– Large Mixing Bowl
– Skillet or Frying Pan
– Meat Thermometer
To make this dish, you will need some basic kitchen tools. A large mixing bowl helps you combine the chicken and sauce easily. A skillet or frying pan is best for cooking the chicken. You want it to get nice and golden. A meat thermometer is important too. It ensures your chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C). These tools make the cooking process smooth and fun.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Cutting the Chicken Thighs
Start by taking one pound of boneless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. This makes them easy to cook and eat. Make sure each piece is uniform in size for even cooking.
– Mixing the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine one cup of orange marmalade with two tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir well until the mixture is smooth. This sauce will bring sweet and salty flavors to the chicken.
Cooking Process
– Marinating the Chicken
Pour the sauce over the chicken pieces in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to coat each piece well. Let it marinate for 15 to 20 minutes. This step is key. It allows the chicken to soak up all the tasty flavors.
– Sizzling & Stir-Frying
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken along with any leftover sauce. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often. This helps the chicken cook through and caramelize a bit. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Final Presentation
– Transfer to Serving Dish
After cooking, remove the chicken from the heat. Carefully transfer it to a serving dish.
– Garnishing Suggestions
For a beautiful touch, serve the chicken over fluffy white rice. Add sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. This not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensuring Proper Cooking Temperature
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat.
– Achieving the Right Caramelization
Cooking the chicken until it caramelizes is key. Stir it gently to avoid burning. The sugar in the orange marmalade helps create a nice brown color. This adds flavor and makes the dish look great.
Serving Suggestions
– Accompanying Side Dishes
Serve your orange chicken with white rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce well. You can also add steamed veggies, like broccoli or snap peas. They add color and nutrients to your meal.
– Pairing with Drinks
A light drink pairs well with this dish. Try iced tea or a citrus soda. For adults, a crisp white wine can complement the flavors nicely. Choose drinks that won’t overpower the sweet taste of the chicken.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
Switching chicken for tofu can make this dish vegan-friendly. Tofu absorbs flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut it into cubes, just like the chicken. Marinate it in the same orange-marmalade mix for 15-20 minutes. This will help it soak up the zest.
Using other citrus marmalades can add a twist. Try lemon or grapefruit marmalade. Each type brings a unique taste. You can mix and match based on what you have at home. This keeps your meal exciting and fresh.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding garlic or ginger can boost the flavor. Both ingredients add warmth and depth. Mince one clove of garlic or a small piece of ginger. Mix them into the orange-marmalade sauce. This extra step will enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.
Incorporating vegetables makes the meal more colorful and healthy. You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with the chicken. This not only adds nutrition but also brightens the dish.Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool down first. Place the orange chicken in a shallow dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This helps keep the chicken fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Recommended Storage Containers
Use airtight containers for best results. Glass or plastic containers work well. Choose a size that fits your portion needs. If you plan to freeze, use freezer-safe bags. This will prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
Best Methods to Reheat Orange Chicken
To reheat, you have a few options. The microwave is quick and easy. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. You can also use the stovetop. Heat a skillet on medium heat, adding the chicken. Stir until hot.
Avoiding Dryness
To avoid drying out the chicken, add a splash of water or broth. This creates steam and keeps it moist. For the microwave, you can add a little orange juice for extra flavor. Always check that it’s heated to 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Thawing helps the chicken cook evenly. You can leave it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for quick thawing. After thawing, cut it into bite-sized pieces as usual.
How long can I store leftover orange chicken?
You can store leftover orange chicken for up to three days in the fridge. Place the chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure it cools down before you seal it. This will help prevent condensation and sogginess.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours before cooking. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors. You can also cook it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you are ready to serve.
What can I substitute for soy sauce for a gluten-free option?
For a gluten-free option, try using tamari sauce. Tamari is similar to soy sauce but made without wheat. You can also use coconut aminos for a sweeter taste. Both options work well in this orange chicken recipe.
Is there a way to make the sauce spicier?
Yes! To add heat, include red pepper flakes or sriracha in the sauce mix. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. You can also add fresh ginger for a spicy kick. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
This blog post covers how to make a tasty orange chicken dish. We discussed key ingredients, the right equipment, and step-by-step instructions. You learned cooking tips, serving ideas, and variations for this recipe. Storing and reheating tips are also shared.
Now you can confidently cook this dish and impress everyone. Enjoy making your orange chicken, and don’t forget to have fun!
