Irresistible Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe for Dinner

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

The aroma of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken wafts through your home like a warm hug on a chilly day, instantly making your mouth water. Picture succulent chicken, tender and glazed in a bright, zesty orange sauce that dances on your taste buds and lifts your spirits.

This dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it ignites memories of family gatherings where laughter mingles with delightful flavors. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply looking to impress yourself after a long day, this recipe promises to bring comfort and joy to your table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with family
  • The sweet and tangy flavor profile leaves everyone asking for seconds
  • Its vibrant color makes it a showstopper at any meal
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners but versatile enough for special occasions or meal prep

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for their juicy texture and rich flavor; they hold up beautifully during slow cooking.
  • Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for the best kick; it adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
  • Oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice is the star here; choose ripe oranges for optimal sweetness.
  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing the umami flavor of the dish.

For the Sauce:

  • Honey: Adds natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the orange juice; use local honey if possible.
  • Rice Vinegar: A splash brings brightness and tang, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
  • Cornstarch: Used as a thickener at the end, it gives the sauce that glossy finish we all love.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Preparing Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them. Chop the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces while imagining how delicious they will taste later. Zest one orange before juicing it; this extra step adds an aromatic punch.

Creating the Flavor Base

In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until blended; you’ll notice how vibrant and fragrant this mix becomes—a true citrus symphony!

Cooking Time

Place the chopped chicken thighs into your slow cooker and pour that beautiful marinade over them. Stir gently to coat every piece of chicken in this luscious mixture. Cover with a lid and set your slow cooker on low for about six hours or high for three hours.

Thickening That Sauce

Once cooked, remove about half a cup of liquid from the slow cooker and whisk in cornstarch until smooth. Return this mixture back into the slow cooker and stir well before cooking on high for another 30 minutes. Watch as it transforms into a glossy glaze that clings beautifully to each piece of chicken.

Serving It Up

When ready to serve, fluff up some steamed rice or quinoa on plates—something sturdy enough to soak up all that delicious sauce! Spoon generous helpings of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken over your grains. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor!

Enjoying Every Bite

As you dive into this dish, relish every bite—the tender chicken bursting with citrus notes alongside sweet undertones from honey will have you dreaming about leftovers (if there are any). This meal is perfect for sharing but even more delightful when savored solo while binge-watching your favorite show.

Now you know how easy it is to create this flavorful masterpiece in your own kitchen! With just a few simple steps and some love poured into each phase of preparation, you’ll impress everyone around you—and who knows? You might just become known as “the Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Guru” among friends!

You Must Know

  • This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe transforms your weeknight dinners into a feast of flavor with minimal effort
  • The citrusy aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a gourmet restaurant experience, all while you kick back and relax
  • Perfect for busy days!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To ensure a delightful Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, start by searing the chicken for extra flavor. Then, mix your sauce while that sizzles away. Finally, toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you enjoy some well-deserved downtime!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken with veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. Swap the soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option or add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. Make it yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Slow Cooker Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, remember: always sear your chicken first for depth of flavor
  • Avoid overcooking by checking doneness early
  • Serve it over rice for an easy meal that everyone will love!

Sometimes I think my slow cooker is having a party without me when I walk into my kitchen to that tantalizing orange aroma wafting through the air—my family can’t resist coming back for seconds!

FAQs :

What is Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This recipe uses a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as you can set it up and let it cook while you focus on other tasks. Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

The cooking time for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb all the flavors of the orange sauce. Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature, which should reach 165°F for safe consumption. This makes it an easy option for meal prep or gatherings where you need more flexibility.

Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, but it’s essential to adjust your cooking time accordingly. When cooking from frozen, allow an additional hour or two to ensure the chicken cooks through properly. However, thawing the chicken beforehand will provide better flavor absorption from the orange sauce. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F before serving.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

You can serve Slow Cooker Orange Chicken with a variety of sides. Steamed white rice or brown rice works wonderfully as it absorbs the flavorful sauce. For a healthier option, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. You could also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Adding some sesame seeds and green onions on top will enhance both presentation and flavor.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken :

In summary, Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken and a delightful orange sauce in a hassle-free way. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this recipe is ideal for busy families or anyone looking to impress guests effortlessly. Remember to serve it over rice or with fresh veggies to create a balanced meal that pleases everyone at the table. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!

Print

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that features juicy chicken thighs enveloped in a vibrant sweet-tangy orange sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe requires minimal prep while delivering maximum flavor. The tender chicken absorbs the citrus goodness, making every bite comforting and satisfying. Serve it over rice or quinoa to create a delightful meal everyone will love.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 23 oranges)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Chop the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and zest one orange.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the marinade.
  3. Place the chopped chicken in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over it; stir to coat evenly.
  4. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
  5. To thicken the sauce, remove half a cup of liquid from the slow cooker, mix with cornstarch until smooth, return to slow cooker, and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
  6. Serve over steamed rice or quinoa and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 490mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: - For added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. - Customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

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