Orange Marmalade Chicken Recipe – Easy and Delicious

This recipe is super easy, and you don’t need to be a chef to make it. It uses simple ingredients, most of which you already have at home. The orange marmalade gives the chicken a beautiful glaze, and every bite is sticky, sweet, and a little bit zesty. The best part? It’s healthy and baked – not fried – so it’s better for you and your family.

Have you ever tasted chicken that’s sweet, tangy, and full of flavor in every bite?

If not, then get ready to try something new and very yummy! This Orange Marmalade Chicken is a dish you will want to make again and again. It’s made with juicy chicken and a sweet orange sauce that tastes just like sunshine. Yes, sunshine in your mouth!

Baking the chicken makes it juicy on the inside and golden on the outside. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing while it’s in the oven. Kids love the sweet taste, and adults enjoy the mix of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a perfect dish for dinner time, weekend meals, or even small parties.

So if you’re looking for a new chicken recipe that is easy, tasty, and fun, this one is just right. Let’s get started with all the things you need and learn how to make this finger-licking good dish!

What is Orange Marmalade Chicken, and is it healthy?

This recipe is a sweet and savory American dish made with baked chicken coated in a sticky orange sauce made from marmalade, soy sauce, and simple seasonings. It’s a healthier option because the chicken is baked instead of fried, keeping it juicy without adding extra oil. Plus, you get a good mix of protein and flavor in every bite. It’s budget-friendly too, so you don’t need to spend a lot to make a meal that feels special.

Time Required for Orange Marmalade Chicken

Here is how much time you need:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Looking for something cheesy? This dish hits the spot: Cheesy Chicken Recipe Variations – 5 Delicious Flavor Ideas

Recipe Yield

This recipe makes enough for:

• 4 servings
• Good for 4 people

Cost Breakdown 

Making this recipe is very budget-friendly. Below is an estimated cost breakdown for different serving sizes:

Servings	Estimated Cost
5 servings	$9.00
10 servings	$18.00
15 servings	$27.00
20 servings	$36.00

These values are based on average ingredient costs in the U.S. (chicken breast, marmalade, soy sauce, olive oil, etc.). Prices may vary slightly depending on your location, brand, and store deals.

Best Serving Methods

This sweet and savory chicken is best served with:

• Steamed rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Garlic bread
• Fresh green salad

Fun Tip: For kids, cut the chicken into strips and serve with toothpicks and extra sauce for dipping!

Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few things to watch out for when making this recipe:

• Don’t overcook the chicken – it will become dry.
• Don’t use too much soy sauce – it will make the dish too salty.
• Don’t skip the sauce basting while baking – it helps the chicken stay juicy.
• Don’t use a cold oven – always preheat it.
• Don’t use thick cuts of chicken – they take longer and might cook unevenly.

If you want something crispy, visit our crispy chicken recipe:Easy & Delicious Broasted Chicken Recipe – Crispy & Juicy

5 Delicious Flavor Variations

Want to try different tastes? Try these fun twists:

• Spicy Orange Chicken – Add hot sauce or extra chili flakes to the sauce.
• Ginger Orange Chicken – Add 1 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger to the sauce.
• Honey Orange Chicken – Add 2 tablespoons of honey for a sweeter glaze.
• Garlic Butter Orange Chicken – Mix 1 tablespoon of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic into the sauce.
• Pineapple Orange Chicken – Add crushed pineapple to the marmalade mix for a tropical flavor.

Bulk Preparation for Events or Restaurants

Need to cook for a crowd? Here’s how to make this dish in big batches:

Ingredients for 50 Servings:

• 50 boneless chicken breasts
• 12 cups orange marmalade
• 1½ cups soy sauce
• ¾ cup Dijon mustard
• ½ cup lemon juice
• ½ cup olive oil
• Spices – adjust in larger amounts

Instructions:

• Use a big, food-safe bin to mix the sauce.
• Marinate the chicken for 2–4 hours to boost flavor.
• Lay chicken flat on sheet pans, not stacked.
• Rotate pans in the oven to cook evenly.
• Use gloves and check the chicken with a thermometer.
• Hold finished chicken in warmers at 140°F (60°C).
• Always label ingredients for people with allergies.

Precaution: Follow food safety rules – clean all surfaces, wash your hands, and cook to the right temperature.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

• Calories per serving: 290 kcal
• Calories per 100g: 165 kcal

Main Ingredient Calories:

• Chicken breast (1 medium): ~165 kcal
• Orange marmalade (2 tbsp): ~100 kcal
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): ~120 kcal

These are estimated calorie values based on standard measurements. Actual values may vary slightly depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

You may also like to read:Juicy Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken – Easy Copycat Recipe

Key Cooking Insights, Common Concerns & Pro Chef Tips

Upgrade the Sauce with Layered Citrus Flavors

To make your Orange Marmalade Chicken stand out, elevate the sauce by layering citrus notes. Combine orange marmalade with a bit of fresh orange zest, a splash of lime juice, and a small amount of orange juice concentrate. This deepens the flavor profile and cuts through the sweetness with a cleaner, more complex citrus punch. It also adds brightness that store-bought marmalade lacks. Professional chefs often recommend simmering the sauce gently before using it, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop depth. This simple upgrade turns a basic glaze into a gourmet-level citrus reduction.

Use Bone-In Chicken for Flavor Boost and Moisture

Most home cooks default to boneless breasts, but switching to bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces adds unmatched flavor and helps retain moisture. In Orange Marmalade Chicken, the bones conduct heat more evenly and prevent the meat from drying out. The skin crisps up beautifully when basted with the sticky glaze, giving the dish a more satisfying texture. Roast at 400°F for slightly longer than boneless cuts. This method is especially useful for special dinners or when presentation matters. Bone-in pieces also absorb more flavor from the sauce during baking, giving you a deeper, restaurant-quality result with minimal effort.

Pair with Savory Sides to Avoid Over-Sweetness

While the chicken is sweet and tangy, pairing it with overly sweet sides can make the whole meal feel unbalanced. To bring out the best in Orange Marmalade Chicken, serve it with neutral or savory sides like roasted garlic mashed potatoes, lemon-herb quinoa, or steamed broccoli with sea salt. These help cut through the richness of the glaze and create a rounded plate. Avoid pairing with honey-glazed vegetables or sweet potato casserole. Pro chefs focus not just on the main dish but the harmony of the full meal. Balanced contrast elevates flavor and increases satisfaction.

Try a Cast Iron Bake for Even Caramelization

For a pro-level texture and glaze, bake your Orange Marmalade Chicken in a cast iron skillet. Cast iron retains heat evenly, which helps the marmalade glaze caramelize without burning. It also gives the underside of the chicken a subtle crispness that baking sheets often can’t. Preheat the skillet in the oven before adding the chicken to start searing immediately. This technique also reduces moisture pooling under the meat, giving you a better finish. It’s a small step, but one that can dramatically improve both taste and texture—ideal for foodies or anyone wanting to elevate their home cooking.

Final Thoughts

Orange Marmalade Chicken is more than just another dinner recipe – it’s a flavorful experience your whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a regular weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends, this dish will brighten the table and bring big smiles to everyone who tastes it.

Its bold mix of sweet and tangy flavors makes it stand out. It’s baked, not fried, so it’s a little healthier too. Plus, it’s simple, budget-friendly, and easy enough that even beginners in the kitchen can cook it with confidence.

So why not give this recipe a try tonight? You’ll be amazed by how much flavor comes from such easy ingredients. It might even become your new favorite way to cook chicken!

Have you ever tried baking with marmalade before? If not, now’s the perfect time to start. Happy cooking and enjoy your sweet, sticky, and savory Orange Marmalade Chicken!

 check out our other chicken recipes, visit TastyShade Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

What cut of chicken is best for Orange Marmalade Chicken?

For the juiciest and most flavorful Orange Marmalade Chicken, bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks work best. These cuts hold more moisture and absorb the orange glaze better. If using boneless chicken breasts, consider butterflying them for even cooking and reduced dryness.

Can I use low-sugar marmalade for Orange Marmalade Chicken?

Yes, low-sugar marmalade works well in Orange Marmalade Chicken, though the glaze may be thinner. You can balance the flavor by adding a spoonful of honey or orange juice concentrate to intensify sweetness without making the dish too sugary.

Can I make Orange Marmalade Chicken in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, Orange Marmalade Chicken is slow cooker- and Instant Pot-friendly. In the slow cooker, cook on low for 3–4 hours, then uncover and cook 30 minutes more to thicken. For the Instant Pot, use pressure cook mode and reduce the sauce afterward on sauté.

How do I stop the sauce from burning in Orange Marmalade Chicken?

To avoid burning the sauce in Orange Marmalade Chicken, bake at 375°F and cover the dish with foil for the first half of the cook time. Baste halfway through, and remove foil in the last 10 minutes for that glossy finish without scorching the sugar.

What side dishes pair well with Orange Marmalade Chicken?

The best sides for Orange Marmalade Chicken are savory or neutral to balance the sweet glaze. Think garlic mashed potatoes, jasmine rice, or lemon herb quinoa. Avoid sweet sides like candied yams, as they can overpower the dish’s flavor harmony.

Is Orange Marmalade Chicken gluten-free and dairy-free?

Orange Marmalade Chicken is naturally dairy-free. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and check your marmalade label for additives. Skip thickening agents or replace with a cornstarch alternative if needed.

Can I freeze Orange Marmalade Chicken or make it ahead of time?

Yes, Orange Marmalade Chicken is freezer-friendly. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, use the oven or stovetop with a little water to rehydrate the glaze.

How can I thicken the sauce for Orange Marmalade Chicken without cornstarch?

To naturally thicken the sauce for Orange Marmalade Chicken, simmer it in a saucepan before baking or cook uncovered in the oven. You can also blend in a bit of roasted orange or reduce the liquid slightly to get a stickier consistency.

Can I air-fry Orange Marmalade Chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, Orange Marmalade Chicken can be cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture. Cook at 380°F for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway. Apply the marmalade glaze during the last few minutes to prevent it from burning in the high heat.

What cuisine is Orange Marmalade Chicken considered?

Orange Marmalade Chicken is typically classified as American cuisine with some Asian-inspired flavor notes. Unlike traditional Chinese orange chicken, this version is baked, not fried, and uses pantry ingredients like marmalade, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard for a sweet-savory fusion.