4 Ingredient Orange Chicken: Easy & Delicious

Name: 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken: Easy & Delicious
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup orange juice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons cornstarch

by Jannet Lisa

23 de August de 2025

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4 ingredient orange chicken has become my absolute go-to for those moments when dinner needs to be both incredibly delicious and ridiculously easy. I remember one frantic Tuesday evening when I had absolutely nothing planned, and the thought of a complicated meal felt impossible. That’s when I discovered this gem, and let me tell you, the sweet and tangy aroma that filled my kitchen was pure magic. It’s astonishing what you can create with just a few pantry staples – you might be wondering, what are the ingredients for 4 ingredient orange chicken? Well, get ready to be amazed by how simple it is! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken

This recipe is a weeknight warrior for so many reasons:

Insanely delicious sweet and tangy flavor that kids and adults adore.
Super quick prep time, meaning dinner is on the table in minutes.
A healthier alternative to takeout with lean protein and simple ingredients.
Incredibly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
This minimal ingredient orange chicken is a guaranteed family-pleaser.
It’s a fantastic option when you need a fast, satisfying meal.
The minimal ingredient orange chicken is proof that simple can be spectacular.
It’s an easy way to get a tasty dinner on the table without a fuss.

Ingredients for Easy 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Gathering the components for this simple 4 ingredient orange chicken recipe couldn’t be easier, as these are truly staple orange chicken ingredients you might already have. You only need four things to create this magic!

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – I prefer thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
1 cup orange juice – This is the base of our amazing sauce! Use 100% pure orange juice, not from concentrate, for the best flavor.
1/4 cup soy sauce – This adds that essential savory depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness of the orange.
2 tablespoons cornstarch – This little powerhouse is key to thickening our sauce and giving the chicken a lovely coating.

How to Make Simple 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Whipping up this delicious, easy orange chicken is a breeze, and it all starts with a few key components. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these quick orange chicken ingredients come together for a satisfying meal.

Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a medium bowl and the 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in the cornstarch until they’re all lightly coated. This helps create a lovely texture and thickens our sauce later.
Step 2: Find your favorite skillet or wok. Add about a tablespoon of cooking oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly. Carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken to the hot skillet. Try not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to ensure each piece gets nicely browned.
Step 3: Let the chicken cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You’ll hear that satisfying sizzle as it cooks! This step ensures your chicken is tender and juicy.
Step 4: Now for the sauce! Pour in the 1 cup orange juice and the 1/4 cup soy sauce directly into the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch as the sauce magically thickens from the cornstarch, coating each piece of chicken in that irresistible sweet and tangy glaze. The aroma will be incredible! You’re using simple, quick orange chicken ingredients to create something truly special.

Cooking 4 ingredient orange chicken in a skillet

Pro Tips for the Best Minimal Ingredient Orange Chicken

Want to elevate this simple dish even further? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this recipe truly shine, turning basic components into something restaurant-worthy.

For an extra flavorful sauce, use fresh orange zest along with the juice. It adds a brighter citrus note.
Don’t skip the cornstarch coating on the chicken; it’s crucial for creating that signature thick, glossy sauce.
Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear, which adds depth of flavor.
Taste and adjust the sauce towards the end. You might want a splash more soy sauce for saltiness or a tiny pinch of sugar if your orange juice is tart.

What’s the secret to perfect 4 ingredient orange chicken?

The magic really lies in the balance of the few simple ingredients. Using 100% orange juice and ensuring the cornstarch creates a proper glaze are key. These easy orange chicken base ingredients work together beautifully for that classic sweet and tangy profile.

Can I make few ingredient orange chicken ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the chicken pieces and have the sauce ingredients measured out. However, for the best texture, I recommend coating the chicken and cooking it just before serving. The sauce thickens best when made fresh.

How do I avoid common mistakes with orange chicken pantry staples?

A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which steams the chicken instead of searing it. Also, ensure you use 100% orange juice, as blends can alter the flavor. Finally, don’t overcook the sauce, or it might become too thick.

Best Ways to Serve 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken

This incredibly simple chicken dish is so versatile! It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a complete meal. One of my favorite ways to serve it is over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice soaks up all that delicious orange sauce, which is a fantastic use of these common orange chicken ingredients. Another great option is to serve it with steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and some added veggies. For a heartier meal, try it with some lo mein noodles or even a simple side salad. It truly transforms a few basic components into something special. For more dinner inspiration, check out these sloppy joe bowls.

Nutrition Facts for 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this easy orange chicken. It’s amazing how these staple orange chicken ingredients provide such a satisfying meal.

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy meal ideas, consider this healthy kit kat recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Minimal Ingredient Orange Chicken

Leftovers of this delightful orange chicken recipe with few ingredients are a treat! Once cooked, let the chicken cool completely before storing. I like to transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep this delicious dish in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is to thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon of water or orange juice if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave it, covered, until heated through. If you’re looking for other quick dinner ideas, you might enjoy these mediterranean chicken zucchini bake recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions About 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken

What is in 4 ingredient orange chicken?

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity! At its core, 4 ingredient orange chicken typically includes chicken (thighs or breast), orange juice for that signature sweet and tangy glaze, soy sauce for savory depth, and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. These are truly staple orange chicken ingredients that create a surprisingly complex flavor profile.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While I personally love the tenderness of chicken thighs for this simple 4 ingredient orange chicken, chicken breast works perfectly fine too. Just be mindful that breast meat can dry out a bit faster, so try not to overcook it. The cornstarch coating and the sauce will still provide plenty of moisture.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like for your easy 4 ingredient orange chicken, you can easily fix it. In a small bowl, whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute until it thickens. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a splash more orange juice or water until you reach your desired consistency.

What other common orange chicken ingredients could I add?

While this recipe rocks with just four components, you can easily enhance it! For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes with the sauce. Some garlic and ginger powder, or even a bit of fresh minced garlic, can add another layer of flavor. A teaspoon of sesame oil stirred in at the end gives a lovely nutty aroma, making your minimal ingredient orange chicken even more sophisticated. For more flavor ideas, consider trying a sausage and sweet potatoes honey garlic sauce.

Variations of 4 Ingredient Orange Chicken You Can Try

This recipe is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting with it! Here are a few ways to switch things up and explore different flavors while still keeping it simple. These variations show how versatile the essential orange chicken ingredients can be.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce mixture for a touch of heat. It perfectly complements the sweet orange flavor.
Garlic Lover’s Dream: Sauté a clove or two of minced fresh garlic in the skillet before adding the chicken. It adds an amazing aromatic depth.
Crispier Chicken: For an even crispier coating, you can shallow-fry the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces in a bit more oil until golden brown before adding the sauce.
Dietary Swap: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. The flavor profile remains wonderfully similar. For more gluten-free options, explore focaccia bread secrets and recipes.

4 Ingredient Orange Chicken: Easy & Delicious

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A simple and quick orange chicken recipe using only four essential ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal when you need something delicious and fast.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the coated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
Pour in the orange juice and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken, about 5-7 minutes.