Slow cooker orange chicken is a delicious and surprisingly easy weeknight meal. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken drenched in a vibrant, sweet and tangy orange sauce, perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a flavorful, low-effort dinner. Forget takeout – this homemade version is healthier and tastes even better!
What Makes This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe So Special?
This recipe distinguishes itself through several key features:
- Tender Chicken: The slow cooker ensures incredibly tender chicken, eliminating the need for lengthy frying or pan-searing. The low and slow cooking method locks in moisture, resulting in a succulent final product.
- Flavorful Sauce: The orange sauce is a masterpiece of balance, combining the sweetness of orange juice and zest with the savory depth of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. A touch of honey adds extra sweetness, while a hint of red pepper flakes provides a subtle kick.
- Ease of Preparation: Minimal prep work is required. Simply toss the chicken with the sauce ingredients and let the slow cooker do the magic. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatility: Serve this orange chicken over rice, quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for a more substantial dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, orange zest, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. If using, add sesame oil.
- Add Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Serve the slow cooker orange chicken over your favorite grain or with vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you'll need to increase the cooking time. Add about an extra hour or two to the cooking time on low, or an extra hour on high. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through before serving.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce isn't thick enough after cooking, you can make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Sauté the chicken briefly before adding the sauce. Then, pressure cook on high for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release.
What can I serve with slow cooker orange chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, noodles, or cauliflower rice. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
How long can I store leftover slow cooker orange chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This slow cooker orange chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation, delicious flavor, and tender chicken make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!
