Craving Orange Chicken? Try This Easy Recipe Using Chicken Nuggets For A Quick And Tasty Meal

Orange chicken is a beloved dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of orange sauce with tender chicken. This recipe takes a creative twist on the classic by using chicken nuggets, making it a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 pound frozen chicken nuggets
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Nuggets:

• Preheat the oven according to the package instructions for the chicken nuggets.
• Place the chicken nuggets on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown and cooked through.
• Set aside the cooked chicken nuggets.

2. Make the Orange Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and sesame oil.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
• Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering orange sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
• Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.

3. Combine the Chicken Nuggets and Sauce:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken nuggets and the orange sauce.
• Toss to coat the chicken nuggets evenly in the sauce.

4. Serve:

• Serve the orange chicken nuggets immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
• Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors!

Tips for Making the Best Orange Chicken Nuggets

• Use high-quality chicken nuggets for the best flavor and texture.
• If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with a mixture of pineapple juice and lemon juice.
• Adjust the amount of honey and brown sugar to your taste preferences.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange sauce.
• Serve the orange chicken nuggets with steamed rice, noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations on the Orange Chicken Nuggets Recipe

• Sesame Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add a tablespoon of sesame seeds to the orange sauce for a nutty flavor.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of garlic powder to the orange sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
• Spicy Orange Chicken Nuggets: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the orange sauce for a spicy kick.
• Teriyaki Orange Chicken Nuggets: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce in the orange sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.

Summary: Delight Your Taste Buds with Orange Chicken Nuggets

This orange chicken recipe using chicken nuggets is a delightful twist on the classic dish. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, these orange chicken nuggets are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen chicken nuggets?
A: Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them in a pan until golden brown and cooked through before proceeding with the recipe.

Q: Can I make the orange chicken nuggets in a pan instead of the oven?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken nuggets in a pan. Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken nuggets until golden brown and cooked through. Then, add the orange sauce and toss to coat the chicken nuggets.

Q: Can I use a different type of citrus juice instead of orange juice?
A: Yes, you can use other citrus juices such as pineapple juice, lemon juice, or grapefruit juice. However, the flavor of the orange chicken nuggets will be slightly different.