Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of sweet and tangy citrus, knowing that a delicious, home-cooked meal is ready and waiting. This isn’t just a dream; it’s the reality you can create with this incredibly easy and flavorful recipe! Orange chicken, a beloved staple of American Chinese cuisine, has captured hearts (and stomachs!) with its perfect balance of savory and sweet. While its origins are relatively recent, tracing back to the innovative chefs of the 20th century who adapted traditional Chinese flavors for the American palate, its popularity is undeniable.

What makes orange chicken so universally appealing? It’s the delightful combination of crispy (or in this case, tender) chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, citrusy sauce. The sweetness is balanced by a hint of spice and a savory depth that keeps you coming back for more. And now, with this slow cooker orange chicken recipe, you can enjoy all that amazing flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget takeout; this homemade version is healthier, tastier, and surprisingly simple to make. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooker orange chicken!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Orange Sauce:
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• For Serving:
• Cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This coating will help the chicken thicken the sauce later on and give it a nice texture.

Making the Orange Sauce:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the brown sugar is fully dissolved. This is the base of our delicious orange sauce, so give it a good whisk!

Slow Cooking the Chicken:

1. Place the coated chicken pieces into the slow cooker. Try to spread them out in a single layer if possible.
2. Pour the orange sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all the pieces are submerged.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easily shredded with a fork when it’s done. I usually prefer the low setting for a more tender result.

Thickening the Sauce:

1. About 30 minutes before serving, in a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. This is crucial for thickening the sauce to that perfect, glossy consistency.
2. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and stir well to combine.
3. Replace the lid and continue to cook on high for the remaining 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Keep an eye on it, as the sauce can thicken quickly. If it gets too thick, add a little water to thin it out.

Serving the Orange Chicken:

1. Serve the slow cooker orange chicken over cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. I personally love it with jasmine rice!
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
3. Enjoy your delicious and easy slow cooker orange chicken!

Tips and Variations:

Spice Level:

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether. You can also add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.

Vegetable Additions:

Feel free to add vegetables to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Broccoli florets, bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), or snap peas would be great additions. Just toss them in and let them cook until tender-crisp.

Chicken Options:

While I prefer using chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts. However, be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Reduce the cooking time if using chicken breasts.

Fresh Orange Zest:

For an extra burst of orange flavor, add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the sauce mixture. This will really enhance the citrus notes.

Pineapple Chunks:

For a tropical twist, add a can of pineapple chunks (drained) to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. The pineapple will add sweetness and a nice texture.

Gingerbread Spice Variation:

For a unique and festive flavor, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of gingerbread spice to the sauce. This will give the orange chicken a warm and cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.

Serving Suggestions:

This slow cooker orange chicken is also delicious served in lettuce wraps or over noodles. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Storage:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Freezing:

This dish freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cornstarch Alternative:

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder as a substitute. Use the same amount as cornstarch.

Soy Sauce Substitute:

For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Sweetener Options:

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar or maple syrup as a substitute. Adjust the amount to your liking.

Rice Vinegar Substitute:

If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as a substitute. Use a slightly smaller amount, as these vinegars are more acidic.

Garlic and Ginger Paste:

If you’re short on time, you can use garlic and ginger paste instead of fresh garlic and ginger. Use about 1 teaspoon of each.

Slow Cooker Size:

This recipe is designed for a 6-quart slow cooker. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to reduce the ingredients accordingly.

Don’t Overcook:

While slow cookers are great, it’s important not to overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Check the chicken for doneness after the minimum cooking time and adjust accordingly.

Adjusting the Sauce:

Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, more brown sugar for sweetness, or more rice vinegar for tanginess.

Serving a Crowd:

This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a crowd. Just make sure you have a large enough slow cooker.

Making it Ahead:

You can prepare the orange sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will save you time on the day you plan to cook the chicken.

Adding a Kick:

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture. This will add heat and a savory garlic flavor.

Using Frozen Chicken:

While it’s best to use fresh chicken, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You may need to add a little extra cooking time.

Low-Carb Option:

To make this recipe low-carb, use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia instead of brown sugar. Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Sesame Oil Tip:

A little sesame oil goes a long way, so don’t overdo it. Too much sesame oil can make the sauce taste bitter.

Ginger Tip:

Fresh ginger has a much stronger flavor than ground ginger, so adjust the amount accordingly. If using ground ginger, start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste.

Garlic Tip:

Minced garlic can burn easily, so be careful not to overcook it. If you’re concerned about the garlic burning, add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.

Conclusion:

This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to try it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor you achieve with minimal effort. Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of sweet and savory orange chicken, ready to be devoured. That’s the magic of the slow cooker, and this recipe perfectly captures that convenience without sacrificing taste.

What makes this recipe a must-try? First, it’s incredibly easy. Seriously, you’re basically throwing everything into the slow cooker and letting it do its thing. No complicated techniques, no fancy ingredients – just simple, wholesome goodness. Second, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of orange juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing. Third, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a healthier option. You can also add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the slow cooker for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a classic presentation, serve your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the slow cooker or drizzle some sriracha over the finished dish. Want to make it even more flavorful? Try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for extra sweetness. You can also experiment with different types of citrus fruits, such as mandarin oranges or tangerines, for a unique twist.

Another fantastic variation is to add a touch of heat with a finely chopped jalapeño pepper. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can simply omit it. For a richer flavor, try using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during the slow cooking process. If you’re short on time, you can even use pre-cut chicken pieces.

Don’t Forget the Sides!

To complete your meal, consider serving your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken with a side of steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple salad. Egg rolls or spring rolls also make a great appetizer. And for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of orange cake would be the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the best slow cooker orange chicken you’ve ever had!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and how much you loved it! I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!

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