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Easy Orange Sauce for Chicken (Microwave-Friendly!)

Chicken is one of those go-to proteins that can sometimes feel a little… meh. That’s why I love whipping up this simple orange sauce. It’s sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of zesty, like sunshine in a jug. And yes, you can make it entirely in the microwave! Perfect for busy nights when you don’t want another plain chicken dinner staring back at you.

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The flavour is a bit like a lighter, homemade take on sweet-and-sour, but without the mystery ingredients. It’s fresh, bright, and works just as well with veggies or even a stir-fry.

What you’ll need

  • 1 cup orange juice (fresh or from a carton, both work)
  • 2 tsp cornflour (cornstarch)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce for a twist)
  • 1 tbsp honey (or sugar if that’s what you’ve got)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (or a crushed clove if you prefer)
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme or mixed herbs are great)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How to make it

Whisk the cornflour into the orange juice in a microwave-safe jug until smooth. Add the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and herbs. Give it a quick stir.

Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then heat for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns glossy. Taste it, if you’d like it sweeter, add another drizzle of honey. If you want more punch, a splash more soy will do the trick. Pour generously over your chicken and let the magic happen.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Extra tangy: Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for brightness.
  • Spicy orange: Stir in a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Ginger kick: Grate in some fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ground ginger) for warmth.
  • Creamy twist: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yoghurt or cream at the end.
  • Sticky glaze: Microwave for an extra minute until thicker, then brush over chicken wings or drumsticks before finishing under the grill.

This orange sauce is such a crowd-pleaser, it feels a little fancy but comes together in minutes. I love it drizzled over pan-fried chicken with rice, but it also works as a dipping sauce or even a quick stir-fry base. Basically, once you’ve made it, you’ll start finding excuses to pour it over everything.