Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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:
- 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:
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours, 2 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 32g