When the evening sun begins to set and the day’s chaos starts to fade, there’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of dinner simmering away in the Crockpot. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken bathed in a luscious, sweet-tart orange sauce that beckons you to the table. This Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken isn’t just a dish; it’s a comforting hug for the soul, easily crafted with just five minutes of prep.
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those hectic weekday evenings when takeout seemed too tempting, but my heart craved something homemade. With the promise of takeout flavors made simple, this recipe transformed our family dinners into a delightful experience, bringing everyone together around the table. As the scent fills your kitchen, you’ll know you’ve crafted a meal that leaves fast food in the dust. Get ready for a cozy night in with a dish that’s bound to become a weekly favorite!
Why is Crockpot Orange Chicken a Game Changer?
Simplicity: This recipe requires only five minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting Aroma: The delightful scent of orange sauce bubbling away will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or even with a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Family-Focused: Kids love the sweet, tangy flavor, making it a surefire hit for the whole family!
Takeout Taste at Home: Enjoy the same savory flavors of restaurant favorites, minus the cost and wait.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for days! Storing them in the fridge or freezer brings even more convenience.
Crockpot Orange Chicken Ingredients
Discover the key ingredients that make this Crockpot Orange Chicken a family favorite!
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders – Adaptable and tender; use breasts for budget-friendly meals or tenders for quicker cooking!
For the Sauce
• Orange Marmalade – The star ingredient for that sweet and tangy flavor base.
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Enhances umami and keeps the dish lower in sodium.
• White Vinegar – Balances the sweetness and brings a bright acidity.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty fragrance that elevates the dish.
• Ground Ginger – A warming spice that deepens the flavor; can add a bit more for a spicier kick.
• Garlic – Minced to impart a rich aroma and flavor throughout the sauce.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for those who like a little heat!
For Garnishing
• Sesame Seeds – Provide a crunchy texture and beautiful finish; feel free to skip if desired.
• Chopped Scallions – Freshness and color; these can easily be swapped for herbs you love!
For Browning
• Olive Oil – Essential for a golden crust that maximizes flavor while preventing sticking.
• Cornstarch – Key for a light crust on the chicken that helps keep it juicy and tender.
How to Make Crockpot Orange Chicken
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Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders into bite-sized pieces. Ensure they are evenly coated with cornstarch for that delightful texture!
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Brown the chicken by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s lightly golden, creating a beautiful crust—this step adds so much flavor!
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Transfer the browned chicken into your slow cooker. This will be the base for the incredible sauce you’re about to whip up.
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Whisk together the orange marmalade, reduced-sodium soy sauce, white vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl. This sweet-tangy sauce is what makes your dish shine!
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Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Gently stir to coat the chicken pieces and ensure each bite is filled with flavor!
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Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours or HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to stir halfway through to keep everything evenly cooked and flavorful.
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Garnish your finished dish with additional sesame seeds and chopped scallions just before serving. They add a lovely crunch and freshness for that restaurant-quality touch!
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Orange Chicken
- Coat Properly: Always coat chicken pieces in cornstarch before browning to achieve a tender, flavorful texture that’s key for your Crockpot Orange Chicken.
- Mind the Heat: Stick to low heat when slow cooking; high heat can result in stringy chicken which no one wants!
- Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin at the end of cooking, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to thicken it up.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your Crockpot Orange Chicken over fluffy rice for a complete meal that feels like a warm embrace at dinner time.
- Fresh Garnishes: Don’t skip the sesame seeds and scallions; they add delightful texture and freshness that elevate your dish!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your flavors fresh and the chicken juicy for quick meals later.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to restore its luscious consistency.
Serving Reminder: Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Crockpot Orange Chicken even after storage; it’s a comforting meal that tastes just as good reheated!
What to Serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?
When creating a meal around this flavorful dish, think of sides that enhance its sweet and savory profile while providing delightful textures.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The perfect companion for soaking up the luscious orange sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green addition that balances the sweet chicken with its earthy flavor and a satisfying crunch.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy bites add a delightful contrast to the tender chicken, bringing in fresh veggies and a perfect dipping sauce.
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Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This refreshing, zesty grain dish complements the orange notes beautifully while providing a nutritious twist.
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Garlic Sautéed Spinach: A quick and healthy side, the garlicky spinach offers a savory note alongside the sweetness of the chicken.
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Peanut Crunch Salad: This colorful combination of crisp vegetables and a creamy peanut dressing not only adds texture but also a nutty flavor that pairs well with the orange zest.
Imagine your family gathered around the table, savoring each bite of this comforting meal. These sides together create a harmonious dinner experience that everyone will adore.
Crockpot Orange Chicken Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe, letting your creativity shine through with these fun twists!
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Fruit Preserves: Swap orange marmalade with apricot or peach preserves for a delightful fruity twist.
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Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli or snap peas right before serving for extra color, nutrition, and crunch.
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Low Carb: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that absorbs all those fantastic flavors.
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Citrus Burst: Add a splash of fresh lime juice and zest for an unforgettable zing that makes each bite pop.
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Spicier Kick: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add chili paste to the sauce for those who enjoy a heat-filled adventure.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or cilantro at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some cashews or sliced almonds before serving to add a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.
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Soy-Free Option: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free and low-sodium alternative, while keeping that fantastic umami taste.
Make Ahead Options
If you’re looking to simplify your busy weeknights, preparing Crockpot Orange Chicken in advance is a fantastic option! You can coat the chicken in cornstarch and refrigerate it up to 24 hours ahead of time to maintain that delightful texture. Additionally, whisk together the sauce ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply brown the chicken, transfer it to the slow cooker, pour the sauce over it, and let it cook as directed. This way, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful dish with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it last minute!
Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe oranges for the sauce?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges for your sauce, look for those that are firm and feel heavy for their size. The skin should have a vibrant color and be smooth, with minimal blemishes or dark spots. If you can, give them a slight squeeze—ripe oranges will have a bit of give, indicating juiciness!
How should I store leftover Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This method keeps your flavors fresh and the chicken juicy for quick meals later. If you’re in need of longer storage, consider freezing in freezer-safe bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Can I freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer the container to the refrigerator to thaw overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin after cooking?
To thicken the sauce after cooking, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce and let it cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on HIGH heat, allowing it to thicken up beautifully. Don’t worry; this step is easy and ensures you’ll have a luscious sauce!
Can my furry friends share in the love of this dish?
Great question! While dogs can safely enjoy plain, unseasoned chicken, the sauce contains ingredients such as soy sauce and garlic that may not be safe for pets. Always opt for serving plain, cooked chicken to your furry companions, and keep the flavorful sauce just for the humans!
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! This Crockpot Orange Chicken can be adapted to accommodate various allergies. For gluten-free options, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative. You can also reduce or omit the sesame oil and seeds if nut allergies are a concern. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety!
Crockpot Orange Chicken: Your Easy Family Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders into bite-sized pieces. Ensure they are evenly coated with cornstarch for that delightful texture!
- Brown the chicken by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until lightly golden.
- Transfer the browned chicken into your slow cooker.
- Whisk together the orange marmalade, reduced-sodium soy sauce, white vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Gently stir to coat.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours or HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds and chopped scallions just before serving.