When it comes to effortless yet delicious meals, the Easiest Orange Chicken stands out as a favorite. Embracing bright, zesty flavors paired with tender chicken, this dish can quickly make its way into your regular dinner rotation. With its straightforward preparation using a slow cooker, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Easiest Orange Chicken Recipe
You’ll discover why this Easiest Orange Chicken recipe is a must-try. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple; just add your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Secondly, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without too much fuss. The sweet and tangy orange sauce balances beautifully with the savory soy sauce, creating a delightful flavor that pleases everyone at the table. Plus, the chicken turns out tender and juicy, making it not only delicious but also comforting. From families to busy professionals, this dish fits perfectly into any lifestyle.
Ingredients about Easiest Orange Chicken
To whip up your Easiest Orange Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Gathering these ingredients ahead of time ensures that you are ready to roll with this delicious recipe.
How to Make Easiest Orange Chicken Directions
Creating your Easiest Orange Chicken is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:
- Begin by grabbing your slow cooker. Pour in 1 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of soy sauce, and 1/3 cup of honey. Make sure these ingredients are mixed well to create a balanced sauce that will envelop the chicken.
- Next, add in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. These ingredients not only contribute fantastic flavor but also enhance the aroma of the dish. Stir this mixture together until combined.
- Now, it’s time to add the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Ensure that each piece is well coated with the sauce. This will help the meat absorb those wonderful flavors as it cooks.
- Cover your slow cooker with a lid. If you’re in a hurry, set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours. If you have more time, choose the low setting and let it go for 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will become.
- Once cooking is complete, if you’d like a thicker sauce, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the sauce and cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens to your preference.
- If desired, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the sauce. This makes it easier to serve, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Serve your Easiest Orange Chicken over cooked rice for a satisfying meal. Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
How to Serve Easiest Orange Chicken
Serving your Easiest Orange Chicken is just as easy as making it. After you’ve cooked and plated the dish, the best way to enjoy it is over a generous serving of warm, fluffy rice. The rice acts as a perfect base, absorbing the sweet and tangy sauce while complementing the chicken’s flavors.
Consider adding your favorite side dishes to round out the meal. Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or sautéed bok choy can add a lovely pop of color and extra nutrition to your plate. For a bit of crunch, you might also include some stir-fried vegetables or a crunchy salad on the side. To elevate the presentation, arrange the chicken and rice on the plate and drizzle with any remaining sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions to add a vibrant touch. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Expert Tips: Easiest Orange Chicken
When making your Easiest Orange Chicken, a few expert tips can help elevate your dish:
- Marinate for More Flavor: If you have a little time, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the orange juice and soy sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking. This will infuse them with even more flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Personal tastes vary; feel free to adjust the honey in the recipe to suit your preference. You can add more for extra sweetness or reduce it for a tangier dish.
- Add Zest for Depth: Consider adding some orange zest to the sauce for an additional citrus kick. This can create a more robust flavor profile and enhance the orange taste in the dish.
- Use Different Cuts of Chicken: If you prefer, feel free to use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be aware that breasts may dry out faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Seasoning It Right: Don’t forget to taste your sauce before serving. A little added salt or pepper can enhance the flavors and elevate the dish overall.
These tips should help you master the recipe and create a delicious meal every single time you whip it up.
How to Store Easiest Orange Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers or want to meal prep, storing your Easiest Orange Chicken is simple. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent any leaks or odors from spreading in your fridge.
You can keep leftover orange chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to store it for longer, consider freezing it. When freezing, portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you eliminate as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The dish can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
Variation of Easiest Orange Chicken
One of the best things about this Easiest Orange Chicken is how versatile it is! You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations you might consider:
- Add Vegetables: You can load your dish with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, sugar snap peas, or carrots. Simply add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken to cook through, or sauté them separately and serve alongside.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. This will create a delightful spicy-sweet flavor that enhances the dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative such as tamari to make this a gluten-free meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Citrus Fusion: For a twist, mix in other citrus juices like lemon or lime. This will bring a fresh take on the dish, while maintaining that wonderful citrus profile.
- Alternative Proteins: This recipe isn’t just limited to chicken! You can easily use tofu or shrimp instead if you’re looking for a plant-based or seafood option. Adjust the cooking times accordingly for the best results.
With these variations, you can keep the Easiest Orange Chicken exciting while still enjoying the core flavors that make it so delicious!
FAQ
What is the best way to make Easiest Orange Chicken?
To make the best Easiest Orange Chicken, follow the recipe closely, ensuring that you mix the sauce ingredients well. Allow the chicken to cook thoroughly in the slow cooker, and don’t hesitate to adjust flavors to your liking by adding more honey or spices.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for the Easiest Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so keep an eye on them.
How long does Easiest Orange Chicken last in the fridge?
Easiest Orange Chicken can last in the fridge for 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze my Easiest Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Easiest Orange Chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
How can I make Easiest Orange Chicken spicier?
To make your Easiest Orange Chicken spicier, you can add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even sliced jalapeños along with the chicken in the slow cooker for more heat.
With these guidelines, you’re all set to create a delightful meal that’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easiest Orange Chicken
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs You can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce Use gluten-free tamari for gluten-free option.
- 1/3 cup honey Adjust sweetness to preference.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional, for thickening.
- Salt and pepper to taste
For serving
- Cooked rice Use as a base for the chicken.
- Chopped green onions For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour 1 cup of orange juice, 1/2 cup of soy sauce, and 1/3 cup of honey into the slow cooker and mix well.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger to the sauce, stirring until combined.
- Add 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the sauce and coat each piece well.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, remove the chicken after cooking. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce, cooking on high for another 10-15 minutes.
- Optional: Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the sauce, then stir to combine.
Serving
- Serve the Easiest Orange Chicken over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!