Making a delicious and comforting meal doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort, and that’s why the Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe is a spectacular choice for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce that you and your family will adore. You can simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic, transforming simple components into a delightful feast. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe checks off all the boxes for a family-friendly meal: it’s simple, tasty, and appealing to a wide range of palates. You can create tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a zesty orange marinade that gives every bite a pleasant sweetness balanced by subtle hints of soy sauce and sesame.
Another reason to adore this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or paired with fresh vegetables for a more balanced meal. The recipe also allows you to prepare everything in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and when you return home after a busy day, a delightful dinner awaits!
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
To make this Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, you will need a variety of ingredients that pack in the flavor. Here’s a carefully curated list of what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life:
- 2 pounds boneless (skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- Scallions (chopped, for garnish)
The combination of these ingredients contributes to the dish’s distinctive flavor profile, blending sweetness and umami with a touch of spiciness to keep it exciting.
How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe Directions
Creating your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a journey, filled with the anticipation of the delicious meal that’s about to come. Follow these straightforward steps to bring this dish to life:
- Begin by preparing your chicken. Slice the boneless, skinless chicken into small, bite-sized pieces of about one inch. This allows each piece to soak in the flavors of the sauce as it cooks.
- In a shallow dish, add the cornstarch. Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This step helps to create a crispy texture once the chicken is cooked.
- Next, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over a medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add your cornstarch-coated chicken pieces, ensuring to lightly brown them on all sides. Note that you are not cooking the chicken all the way through at this stage, just browning for texture and flavor.
- Transfer the browned chicken into the bowl of your 6-quart slow cooker. This is where the magic happens as the chicken slowly cooks and absorbs the wonderful sauce.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, low-sodium soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. Mixing these ingredients well will create a savory sauce that will coat your chicken beautifully.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, stirring gently to ensure everything is combined evenly. Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for about three hours. Halfway through the cooking time, give it a gentle stir to make sure nothing is stuck to the bottom and to keep the flavors blending beautifully.
- When your cooking time is complete, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma, signaling that it’s time to serve. Garnish your orange chicken with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, adding a fresh touch to the finished dish.
- Finally, serve the orange chicken hot over rice or alongside your favorite sides. Your family is going to love it, and the flavors are sure to impress!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
Serving your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. The beauty of this dish is its versatility. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Over Rice: Place a generous scoop of rice on each plate and ladle a portion of the orange chicken with its sauce over the top. The rice serves to absorb the flavorful sauce, making each bite satisfying.
- With Vegetables: You can serve the orange chicken alongside steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. This not only adds color to your plate but also contributes nutritional value.
- In a Wrap: Take it to the next level by using the orange chicken as a filling for wraps. Add some crisp lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and a drizzle of ranch or sesame dressing for an exciting twist.
- As a Party Dish: If you’re entertaining guests, consider serving the chicken in a large bowl with toothpicks available for easy serving. This way, it can become a fun finger food that everyone can enjoy.
No matter how you choose to serve your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
To enhance your cooking experience and ensure your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken turns out perfect every time, consider these expert tips:
- Quality Chicken: Choose high-quality, fresh chicken. You can use either breasts or tenders for this recipe; just make sure they are cut into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Marinating Time: For even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate more profoundly.
- Adjusting Spice: If you enjoy a bit more heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Thicker Sauce: If you desire a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Timing Can Vary: Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model, so check for doneness periodically. The chicken should easily shred with a fork when it’s fully cooked.
How to Store Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
Proper storage of your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken allows you to enjoy the leftovers while maintaining their flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Cool It Down: Allow the orange chicken to cool completely before transferring it to storage containers. This helps prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to sogginess.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the chicken into airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best for maintaining freshness and preventing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Refrigeration: You can store your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
- Freezing for Later: If you choose to freeze your chicken, make sure it’s in a suitable container or tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months.
To reheat, just allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Variation of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
There are several delightful variations to explore that keep the spirit of the original recipe while adding your unique touch. Consider these options to customize your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken:
- Citrus Delight: For a zesty twist, mix orange marmalade with a touch of pineapple juice for added sweetness and tang. This variation adds a new layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
- Vegetable Infusion: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the slow cooker along with the chicken. They will cook down and absorb the delicious sauce, making the dish even more wholesome.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The flavor will remain just as delicious without the gluten.
- Sweet and Spicy: For those who love heat, add some diced fresh chilies or a splash of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture. This will give your orange chicken an exciting kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
To make the best Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, focus on high-quality ingredients and take the time to brown your chicken first for added depth of flavor. Mixing the sauce well ensures an even coating over the chicken during cooking.
Can I use other cuts of chicken for the Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders are ideal, you can also use thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different cuts.
How do you serve Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
You can serve it over rice, alongside vegetables, or even use it as a filling for wraps or tacos. The versatility of this dish allows for plenty of serving options.
How should I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Once cooled, store your leftover Slow Cooker Orange Chicken in airtight containers. It can last in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for longer storage.
Can I modify the spice level in Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can enjoy this dish at your preferred spice level. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to make it milder or spicier according to your taste!
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons olive oil for browning the chicken
- ⅓ cup cornstarch for coating the chicken
For the Sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1.5 cups orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust for heat preference
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds plus more for garnish
For Garnish
- 1 bunch scallions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the boneless, skinless chicken into small, bite-sized pieces of about one inch.
- In a shallow dish, add the cornstarch and toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch until they are evenly coated.
- Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces, browning them lightly on all sides.
Cooking
- Transfer the browned chicken into the bowl of your slow cooker.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat for about three hours, stirring gently halfway through.
Serving
- Garnish the orange chicken with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.
- Serve hot over rice or alongside your favorite sides.
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