Homemade Orange Chicken Bites

why make this recipe

Homemade Orange Chicken Bites are a delightful twist on a classic dish. They are flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these bites bring a burst of sweetness and tanginess that everyone will love. You can control the ingredients, making it healthier than takeout, and it’s a fun recipe to make with kids. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that combines chicken with a tasty orange sauce?

how to make Homemade Orange Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

18 ounces orange marmalade
¾ cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Original barbecue sauce
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 ½ inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade and Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce until well combined. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet (12 inch) over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add half of the chicken pieces. Ensure the skillet is not overcrowded to allow proper browning. Cook the chicken for 7-9 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, then add the remaining chicken pieces. Cook and brown for another 7-9 minutes.
Add the previously cooked chicken along with its juices back into the skillet. Pour in the orange sauce mixture and reduce the heat to medium. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce by almost half and thicken until it coats the chicken well.
Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and serve immediately.

how to serve Homemade Orange Chicken Bites

Homemade Orange Chicken Bites are best served warm. You can present them over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and a pop of color. These bites also make a great appetizer for parties.

how to store Homemade Orange Chicken Bites

If you have leftovers, store the chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them for a quick meal without losing too much flavor.

tips to make Homemade Orange Chicken Bites

For extra crunch, consider coating the chicken pieces in cornstarch before cooking. This will give your chicken a nice crispy texture.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less orange marmalade according to your taste.
Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit more flavor.

variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet while cooking the chicken for added nutrition. This makes the dish even more colorful and delicious. Another variation is to use a different type of sauce, such as teriyaki or sweet and sour, for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. It has a sweet and tangy flavor. If you want some heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat them together when ready to serve.