Irresistible Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken wafting through your home. Imagine tender chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, simmering gently while you go about your day. Your stomach starts to rumble with anticipation, and before you know it, you’re picturing that first bite—juicy and bursting with citrusy goodness.

Now, let me take you back to my first encounter with this delightful dish. It was one of those rainy Sundays when I decided to bring a little sunshine into my kitchen. The slow cooker became my trusty sidekick, and soon enough, my family could hardly wait to dig in. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is bound to impress!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for slow cooking as they stay juicy and tender even after hours of cooking.
• Fresh Oranges: Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor; the zest adds an extra punch.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a rich depth of flavor; chop them finely for maximum aroma.
• Ginger: A teaspoon of grated fresh ginger adds warmth and complexity to the sauce.
• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Honey: This natural sweetener balances the acidity of the oranges beautifully.
• Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar helps brighten up the flavors and adds a slight tang.
• Cornstarch: You’ll need this to thicken the sauce toward the end, giving it that glossy finish.

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

How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Let’s break down this culinary adventure into manageable steps. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create this delightful dish!

Prep Your Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken thighs. Place them in your slow cooker as if you’re tucking them into bed—cozy and ready for some love from that amazing sauce.

Make the Citrus Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and some zest from those oranges. The blend should smell like an exotic vacation!

Combine Everything

Pour that heavenly citrus concoction over your chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece of chicken gets coated—this is where all that flavor magic happens.

Set It and Forget It

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for three hours. Go binge-watch your favorite series while waiting; just don’t forget about dinner!

Thicken the Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through and tender (it should fall apart easily), remove it from the slow cooker. Mix cornstarch with a little water until smooth and stir it into the remaining sauce in the pot. Let it cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until thickened—your kitchen will smell divine!

Serve It Up!

Shred your chicken using two forks (or just dive in with your hands if you’re feeling adventurous) and stir it back into that glossy sauce. Serve over steamed rice or noodles—you deserve nothing less than a beautiful presentation.

With these steps completed, you’ll have created an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone begging for seconds—and possibly thirds! Enjoy every bite of this fantastic Slow Cooker Orange Chicken experience!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for extra flavor, then toss it into the slow cooker with your orange sauce. While that magical concoction simmers away, you can prepare your favorite side dishes or maybe take a well-deserved break—because you deserve it!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re in the mood for something different. Want to jazz it up? Add some crushed red pepper for heat or toss in sesame seeds and green onions right before serving. Personalize it to suit your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stove with a splash of water to keep the sauce flowing and delicious.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about the first time I made Slow Cooker Orange Chicken; my friends devoured it and asked for seconds! Their delighted faces made all my kitchen efforts worth it.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

To prepare Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, you will need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, orange juice, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Additionally, consider adding red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor. These ingredients combine to create a deliciously tangy and sweet sauce that perfectly coats the chicken. Make sure to choose fresh oranges for juice to enhance the flavor profile of your dish.

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

Cooking Slow Cooker Orange Chicken typically takes around 4 to 6 hours on low heat or about 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the chicken becomes tender and juicy. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. It’s best to stir occasionally if possible, ensuring even cooking throughout the dish.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Orange Chicken! To do this, allow it to cool completely after cooking. Then, transfer it into an airtight container or freezer bag. Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it a convenient meal prep option!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken pairs well with various sides that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Consider serving it over steamed rice or fluffy jasmine rice for a complete meal. You can also add some sautéed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a nutritious touch. Alternatively, serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter option or alongside quinoa for added protein.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken :

In summary, Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines convenience with bold flavors. With simple ingredients like chicken, soy sauce, and fresh orange juice, you can create a family-friendly meal that everyone will love. The slow cooker method ensures tender chicken infused with a sweet and tangy sauce. Don’t hesitate to experiment with sides like rice or vegetables to elevate your dining experience further! Enjoy this easy recipe any night of the week!

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Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a delightfully easy dish that fills your home with the enticing aroma of citrus and savory goodness. Tender chicken thighs slowly simmer in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, resulting in a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Serve it over rice or noodles for an unforgettable dinner that will have everyone coming back for more!

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and place them in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
5. Once cooked, remove chicken and stir cornstarch mixture into the remaining sauce. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.
6. Shred the chicken and mix it back into the sauce; serve over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 110mg