Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Introduction

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with minimal effort. The zesty orange sauce combined with soy sauce creates a tangy, rich flavor that soaks into tender, juicy chicken, all while being made effortlessly in your slow cooker. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

I’ve made this dish countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family. The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the work for you. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is mouthwatering, and the best part is that it requires very little prep. You just need chicken, a few pantry staples like soy sauce, garlic, and orange juice, and in a few hours, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to serve.

What I love most about Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is how versatile it is. You can serve it with a bowl of steamed rice or sautéed vegetables, making it a well-rounded and satisfying dish. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a flavorful dinner without much fuss, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or just want a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is a winner every time!

Perfect for:

• Busy weeknights
• Family dinners
• Meal prepping
• Asian-inspired dishes
• Citrus lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation:

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to set it and forget it while the chicken becomes perfectly tender.
• Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The bright orange sauce with hints of soy and garlic gives this dish an irresistible sweet and savory profile.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch of this dish for the week ahead. It stores well and makes great leftovers.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild sweetness of the sauce makes it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables, to make it your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (if using slow cooker)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 32g, Carbs: 36g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

To make this Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
• 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated or ground
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Orange zest (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender after slow cooking. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
• Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice is ideal, but store-bought works fine. It’s the main ingredient that gives this dish its sweet and tangy flavor.
• Honey or Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tangy orange juice and soy sauce.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth of flavor and saltiness, so use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy and smooth texture that coats the chicken perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken:

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Cut the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and soak up more of the flavorful sauce.
2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar, depending on your preference.

Cook the Chicken:

3. Add Chicken and Sauce to the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over the top. Stir to combine and coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
4. Cook on Low or High: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. The sauce should reduce and thicken slightly.

Thicken the Sauce:

5. Make a Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes on high to allow the sauce to thicken.

Serve:

6. Serve with Rice: Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, serve the Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with freshly grated orange zest, chopped green onions, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

How to Serve

Here are several ways to serve Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken:

• With Steamed Rice: The classic side for this dish is steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up the delicious orange sauce.
• Over Noodles: For a noodle option, serve it over steamed jasmine or soba noodles for a hearty, filling meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots, for a well-rounded meal.
• As a Wrap: Serve the chicken in a tortilla with shredded lettuce and a drizzle of the sauce for an easy wrap.
• As a Rice Bowl: Create a rice bowl by layering the chicken over rice and topping it with sliced avocado, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of extra sauce.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to make your Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken even better:

• Use Chicken Thighs: For the juiciest, most tender chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs rather than breasts, which can dry out more easily.
• Add More Spice: If you prefer a spicier version, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, simply add more cornstarch and water to create a thicker slurry.
• Use Fresh Orange Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice rather than bottled juice.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables, such as bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots, directly into the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken:

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Crispy Orange Chicken: For a crispy texture, bread and fry the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add extra garlic and honey to create a sweet garlic flavor that complements the orange sauce.
• Mango Orange Chicken: Add diced mango to the sauce for a tropical twist.
• Orange Chicken with Pineapple: Stir in chunks of pineapple for added sweetness and tropical flair.
• Orange Chicken Stir-Fry: Once the chicken is cooked, sauté the chicken with bell peppers, onions, and snap peas for a stir-fry version.
• Ginger Orange Chicken: Add extra grated fresh ginger to give the dish a spicier, more aromatic flavor.
• Slow Cooker Orange Beef: Swap the chicken for beef strips to create a different take on the dish.
• Sweet and Sour Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of ketchup and a tablespoon of vinegar for a tangy, sweet, and sour version.
• Orange Chicken with Cashews: Add a handful of roasted cashews for a nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover orange chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold in wraps or reheated for a quick meal.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken easier:

• Slow Cooker: A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. It allows the chicken to cook low and slow, becoming tender and flavorful.
• Whisk: A whisk is useful for combining the sauce ingredients and creating a smooth consistency.
• Small Bowl: Use a small bowl to mix the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
• Tongs: Tongs are great for handling the cooked chicken and serving it over rice or noodles without making a mess.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier after slow cooking.
2. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas directly into the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add more crushed red pepper flakes, or stir in some sriracha or chili paste to bring the heat.
4. Can I use bottled orange juice?
   Yes, but fresh orange juice will give a better, more vibrant flavor.
5. Can I make this in the Instant Pot instead?
   Yes, you can make this dish in an Instant Pot. Cook it on the “Poultry” setting for 12-15 minutes, then thicken the sauce with cornstarch.

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Conclusion

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken with a flavorful, tangy orange sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of constant attention. This dish is versatile—serve it over rice, noodles, or in a wrap for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a savory meal that’s bursting with sweet and tangy flavors. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it cooks slowly, absorbing all the delicious sauce. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

I can’t wait to hear how your Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken turns out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments and let me know how you made this recipe your own! Enjoy!