3 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Introduction

Have you ever wondered if you can create a delicious and satisfying meal with just three ingredients? The answer is a resounding yes! Our 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is here to challenge your culinary beliefs while delivering a burst of flavor that requires minimal effort. In just a fraction of the time it typically takes to prepare a full meal, you can enjoy a delightful dish that pleases the palate and nourishes the soul. Let’s dive into this quick, easy, and mouth-watering recipe that has transformed weeknight dinners across households.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitution Option
Chicken breast	1 lb, cubed	Firm tofu or tempeh (for a vegetarian option)
Orange marmalade	1 cup	Peach or apricot preserves
Soy sauce	1/4 cup	Liquid aminos or tamari (for a gluten-free option)

Timing

Wondering how long it takes to whip up this delightful dish? You’ll be pleased to know that the preparation time is merely 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes. This totals up to just 30 minutes. That’s over 30% less time than the average weeknight dinner recipe, allowing you to sit back, relax, and savor your delicious creation!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cubing the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This enables even cooking and allows the meat to soak up the orange sauce beautifully. For a quicker meal, you might even consider using pre-cubed chicken available in your grocery store.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, mix the orange marmalade and soy sauce until well combined. This mixture will serve as your sauce, bursting with sweet and savory flavors. As you stir, envision the beautiful color this sauce will bring to your chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once heated, add the cubed chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the orange marmalade mix over the cooked chicken. Stir to evenly coat the chicken in the sauce, and allow it to simmer for 5-10 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that perfect glaze, so don’t rush it!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds or fresh green onions for added flavor and presentation!

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	29g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	5g
Sodium	600mg

This dish is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance. The orange marmalade brings a delightful touch of vitamin C, promoting your immune system and overall health. With low-fat content and moderate calories, this recipe keeps your nutrition in check without sacrificing flavor.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate the nutritional profile of this 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken, here are some suggestions:

• Substitute chicken with skinless turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
• Switch out the orange marmalade for homemade fresh orange juice and zest, reducing added sugars.
• Utilize coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium and gluten-free alternative.
• Add colorful bell peppers or broccoli florets for a nutritious visual appeal and extra fiber.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of orange chicken lies in its versatility. Here are some enticing serving options:

• Over Rice: Serve the orange chicken over fluffy jasmine or brown rice.
• In Wraps: For a fun twist, use lettuce wraps to encompass the orange chicken.
• In a Bowl: Create an Asian-inspired bowl with quinoa, diced cucumbers, and sesame seeds.

Get creative! The possibilities are endless, and each variation adds a unique flair to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to watch the chicken closely while it cooks. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture.
• Not Stirring the Sauce: Ensure you stir the orange sauce well, as unprocessed marmalade might clump and not coat the chicken evenly.
• Skipping the Simmer: Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce is vital for flavor infusion; skip this, and you miss out!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (which can be a delightful surprise for lunch the next day), store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3 days. When reheating, a quick sauté in a pan will revive the flavors beautifully. If you want to prep ingredients ahead of time, chop your chicken and have the sauce ready to go; this will save even more time during your busy week!

Conclusion

In summary, your 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken delivers a burst of flavor and nutrition with minimal effort. Dive into this dish tonight and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more recipes and updates!

FAQs

A: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cubing and cooking to ensure even cooking.

B: Is there a way to make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.

C: Can I double the recipe?

Of course! Just ensure you have a large enough pan to accommodate the increased quantity, or cook it in batches.

D: What are the best sides to serve with orange chicken?

Steamed broccoli, fried rice, or a fresh garden salad pair well with orange chicken.

E: How long should I cook the chicken if it is diced larger than recommended?

If your chicken is cut larger, increase the cooking time by a few minutes while ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

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