Savory CROCKPOT ORANGE CHICKEN Recipe - Quick & Easy Prep

Welcome to our delicious and hassle-free Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe! If you're looking for an easy and quick homemade orange chicken dish, you've come to the right place. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy tender and juicy chicken coated in a delightful sweet-yet-tangy orange glaze. Say goodbye to breading and frying, as this recipe takes a healthier approach without compromising on flavor.

Key Takeaways:

• Create a savory slow cooker orange chicken with minimal effort
• Enjoy a tangy and flavorful orange glaze without breading or frying
• Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a complete meal
• Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings
• A healthier and homemade alternative to takeout

Easy and Flavorful CROCKPOT ORANGE CHICKEN

This crockpot orange chicken recipe is a healthier and homemade alternative to takeout. The combination of orange marmalade, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a tangy and flavorful sauce that coats the tender chicken. The slow cooker method ensures that the chicken becomes infused with the sauce and remains moist and tender. This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve with steamed white rice or your favorite green vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Delicious and Tangy

The slow cooker orange chicken is bursting with delicious flavors. The combination of orange marmalade, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a tangy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the chicken cooks is simply irresistible.

Healthier Alternative

By making this orange chicken in your crockpot, you can enjoy a healthier version of your favorite takeout dish. This recipe doesn't involve breading or frying, making it lower in fat and calories. Plus, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring that you're using high-quality and fresh ingredients.

Simple and Convenient

One of the best things about this crockpot orange chicken recipe is how easy and convenient it is to make. With just a few simple steps, your slow cooker will do all the work for you. It's a great option for busy individuals or families who want a delicious and homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

To make this easy slow cooker orange chicken, start by drizzling the bottom of your slow cooker with olive oil. Then, coat diced chicken breast with a mixture of cornstarch, salt, and pepper, and place it in the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, combine orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and gently stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and cook on high for about 2 hours or on low for about 4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F. Serve the orange chicken over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added flavor and presentation.

If you want to add more depth of flavor to your slow cooker orange chicken, you can brown the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. Simply heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then brown the chicken on all sides until golden. This step will enhance the texture and richness of the dish.

For a flavorful twist, you can also add chopped vegetables to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Broccoli or sugar snap peas work well and will not only add vibrant color but also provide additional nutrition to the meal.

Tips and Variations for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Here are some tips and variations to elevate your slow cooker orange chicken:

• Experiment with different flavors by using hoisin sauce instead of soy sauce for a unique twist on the traditional orange chicken.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or hot sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Consider using boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a slightly different texture.

With these simple tips and variations, you can customize your slow cooker orange chicken to suit your taste preferences and make it a standout dish every time.

Summary

Making slow cooker orange chicken is incredibly easy and results in a delicious and flavorful dish. With just a few simple steps, you can have tender and juicy chicken coated in a tangy orange glaze. Whether you follow the basic recipe or add your own twists and variations, this slow cooker orange chicken is sure to become a family favorite.

Tips and Variations for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Creating your own variation of slow cooker orange chicken is a fun way to experiment with flavors and add a personal touch to the dish. Here are some tips and ideas to inspire you:

1. Add Chopped Vegetables for Color and Nutrition

To enhance the visual appeal and nutritional value of your slow cooker orange chicken, consider adding chopped vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Broccoli or sugar snap peas are excellent choices that will complement the flavors of the dish and provide added texture and freshness.

2. Try Hoisin Sauce for a Flavor Twist

If you want to give your orange chicken a unique twist, try substituting the barbecue sauce with hoisin sauce. The savory and slightly sweet flavor of hoisin sauce will add depth and richness to the dish, creating a delightful fusion of Chinese and citrus flavors.

3. Spice it Up

If you prefer a spicy version of orange chicken, you can easily adjust the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or hot Sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spiciness.

4. Brown the Chicken for Extra Flavor

To enhance the depth of flavor in your slow cooker orange chicken, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker. This simple step will add a delicious caramelization and richness to the chicken, resulting in a more complex and flavorful dish.

5. Try Chicken Thighs for a Different Texture

If you prefer a slightly different texture for your orange chicken, try using boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. The thighs are juicier and have more fat, which adds tenderness and flavor to the dish. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.

These tips and variations will help you customize your slow cooker orange chicken recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add more vegetables, experiment with different sauces, or spice it up, don't be afraid to get creative and make the dish your own.

Make-ahead and Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

If you're looking to save time and have a delicious meal ready in no time, this slow cooker orange chicken recipe is perfect for you. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows you to make it ahead of time and store it for future meals. Here are some tips to help you with the make-ahead process and storage of this tasty dish.

Make-ahead Tip:

To make it ahead of time, simply allow the cooked chicken to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. This way, you can have a quick and easy meal whenever you need it. Just reheat and enjoy!

Storage Tip:

If you want to store the slow cooker orange chicken for an even longer period, you can freeze it. Place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it according to your preference.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week or looking for a convenient freezer meal, these make-ahead and storage tips for this easy crockpot orange chicken recipe will come in handy. Now you can satisfy your cravings whenever you want without compromising on taste or quality.