What You Need to Know About This Recipe
This recipe makes a sweet and tangy chicken dish. It uses orange marmalade for flavor. You can make it in under 30 minutes. It serves four people. The dish mixes fruit taste with savory notes. Use it for weeknight meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Gather these items before you start.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce
- 3/4 cup orange marmalade
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (add more for heat)
For Serving
- Cooked rice
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to cook the dish.
- Mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss chicken pieces in the mix to coat them.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add coated chicken to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip pieces halfway. Cook until golden and done inside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour sauce over cooked chicken in the skillet.
- Stir to coat chicken. Cook for 2-3 minutes more. Let sauce thicken.
- Remove from heat. Let it rest for a minute.
Tips for Best Results
Use these ideas to improve your dish.
- Check chicken with a thermometer. It should reach 165°F inside.
- Choose low-sugar marmalade if you want less sweetness.
- Cook in batches if your skillet is small. This keeps chicken crispy.
- Stir sauce well before adding. This blends flavors.
- Taste sauce before pouring. Adjust flakes for spice level.
Variations to Try
Change the recipe to fit your needs.
- Bake instead of fry: Place coated chicken on a sheet. Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. Add sauce and bake 5 more.
- Slow cooker method: Put raw chicken in cooker. Mix sauce and pour over. Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Vegetarian option: Use firm tofu cubes. Press water out first. Cook the same way.
- Add vegetables: Stir in bell peppers or broccoli during last steps.
- Use thighs: Swap breasts for thighs. They stay moist longer.
What to Serve With It
Pair this chicken with sides for a full meal.
- White or brown rice absorbs the sauce.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans add color.
- A simple salad with greens balances sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
These values can change with changes to ingredients.
Common Questions Answered
Here are answers to frequent searches.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze it? Yes. Cool first, then freeze for 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a pan.
- Is this dish healthy? It provides protein from chicken and vitamin C from oranges. Use low-sodium soy to cut salt.
- What if marmalade is bitter? Mix in a teaspoon of honey to soften it.
- Can I make it ahead? Prep sauce a day before. Cook chicken fresh.
Final Thoughts
This orange marmalade chicken offers a quick way to enjoy bold flavors at home. It beats takeout with fresh ingredients. Try it soon for a meal everyone will like.