Sticky Orange Chicken – The Ultimate Sweet & Tangy Dinner You’ll Crave Again and Again
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like takeout—but better? This Sticky Orange Chicken is everything you want in a comfort meal. It’s juicy, slightly crispy, coated in a sweet and tangy orange glaze, and comes together with just a few pantry ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will become a go-to favorite.
No deep frying, no fancy equipment—just simple ingredients, big flavor, and a beautiful sticky sauce that clings to every bite of tender chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Chicken Recipe
- Only 4 main ingredients
- Sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor combo
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Better than takeout
- Perfect with rice, noodles, or veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing
- 18 oz jar of orange marmalade – this adds that glossy, sweet citrus punch
- ¾ cup barbecue sauce – for smoky, bold flavor that balances the marmalade
- (Optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
- 1 tsp chili flakes – if you like a hint of spice
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cut and Season the Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces—this helps them cook evenly and soak up all the sauce. Lightly season with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of garlic powder or paprika.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken Until Golden
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and fully cooked on the inside.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to get a nice sear on each piece.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Orange Sauce
While the chicken cooks, in a bowl, mix together the orange marmalade and barbecue sauce. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. You can also stir in a teaspoon of soy sauce or vinegar for extra depth.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat every piece. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy and sticky.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Your sticky orange chicken is now ready to enjoy! Serve it hot over a bed of fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or noodles. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or orange zest for extra flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Best with Orange Chicken?
- Steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables
- Fried rice or plain jasmine rice
- Garlic noodles or soba noodles
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Add cashews or peanuts for a crunchy twist
Make It Your Way – Variations You’ll Love
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add 1 tbsp of chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper.
- Crispy Version: Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch before cooking to add crunch.
- Slow Cooker Option: Add raw chicken and sauce ingredients to a crockpot. Cook on low for 4–6 hours.
- Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This dish freezes well! Store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Orange Chicken Tonight
This 4-ingredient Orange Chicken is simple, satisfying, and way healthier than takeout. The balance between the sweetness of the marmalade and the smoky tang of barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that’s downright addictive. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving bold flavor with minimal effort. Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
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