Marmalade Chicken Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 18, 2025

Looking for a deliciously tangy and sweet dinner that’s easy to prepare and will wow your family and friends? Marmalade chicken is an absolute weeknight winner!

This delightful dish combines the zesty brightness of orange marmalade with savory chicken breasts, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, but delivers maximum taste.

The sticky, glossy sauce caramelizes beautifully, making every bite a mouthwatering experience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides, making it ideal for any occasion – from a casual family dinner to a special gathering.

Let’s dive into this fantastic marmalade chicken recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marmalade chicken is a perfect harmony of sweet and savory, providing an exciting twist on traditional chicken dishes. The use of orange marmalade adds a bright citrus flavor that’s both refreshing and comforting.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity – you can whip it up in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the sauce with spices or herbs to suit your taste. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, making it a great choice for dinner parties or meal prepping.

The sticky, glossy sauce makes the chicken irresistibly tender and flavorful, ensuring that each bite is better than the last.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup orange marmalade
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Serving plate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add the marmalade mixture: Stir in the orange marmalade, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan. Spoon the sauce over them and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to glaze the meat beautifully.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For juicier chicken, consider pounding the breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.

You can customize this recipe by adding a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick or a splash of white wine for added depth. For a healthier twist, swap out the chicken breasts for skinless thighs which tend to be more forgiving and flavorful.

If you prefer a saucier dish, simply double the marmalade sauce ingredients and simmer longer to thicken. For a more herbaceous flavor, try adding rosemary or basil along with the parsley garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 38 g
Total Fat 10 g
Saturated Fat 1.5 g
Carbohydrates 12 g
Sugar 10 g
Fiber 0.5 g
Sodium 700 mg

Serving Suggestions

This marmalade chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light and fresh option, serve alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad.

For a more hearty meal, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy jasmine rice soak up the sticky sauce beautifully.

Roasted vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or broccoli complement the citrus flavors perfectly. If you want to add some crunch, toasted almonds or cashews sprinkled on top add a delightful texture contrast.

Conclusion

Marmalade chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors in a way that’s both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. The citrusy marmalade sauce adds a vibrant twist to the tender chicken breasts, making each bite a memorable experience.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.

With its minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the sauce or pair it with your favorite sides to make it uniquely yours.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Marmalade Chicken Recipe

Description: A sweet and tangy chicken dish glazed with orange marmalade and soy sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup orange marmalade
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix marmalade, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and water.
  3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  6. Place chicken in a baking dish and pour marmalade mixture over.
  7. Sprinkle thyme leaves on top if using.
  8. Bake for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  9. Baste chicken with sauce once during baking.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 15 g

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Marta K

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