Crockpot Orange Chicken is the superhero of dinner recipes, swooping in to save your weeknight meals with its sweet and tangy flavor. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken swimming in a luscious orange sauce that smells so good it might just make you forget your worries and do a little happy dance in the kitchen. sweet and fluffy pancakes.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken
- How to Make Crockpot Orange Chicken
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- How long does it take to cook Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- Can I make Crockpot Orange Chicken ahead of time?
- What can I serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- Conclusion for Crockpot Orange Chicken:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let’s be honest, I didn’t always know how to whip up this delightful dish. My first attempt was more of an orange mess than anything resembling dinner. But after some practice (and a few hilarious mishaps), I’ve perfected this recipe. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to impress guests without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fancy holiday gatherings. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Orange Chicken is a breeze to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time.
- The flavor profile bursts with sweet and tangy goodness that everyone will love.
- Its vibrant orange hue makes it visually appealing on any dinner table.
- Versatile enough for both rice bowls and wraps, this dish adapts easily to suit your meal preferences.
Ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken
For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are the stars of the show! About 3-4 chicken breasts work well, but adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for that irresistible flavor punch; trust me, fresh garlic makes all the difference!
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for maximum zing, but store-bought can work if you’re in a pinch.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still delivering that umami goodness.
- Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness; it’s like giving your dish a warm hug!
For the Sauce:
- Rice Vinegar: A splash of this adds acidity and balances out the sweetness.
- Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce beautifully; nobody likes a watery glaze!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Orange Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This not only helps them cook evenly but also makes them easier to devour later—always a plus when you have hungry mouths waiting!
Step 2: Mix Up That Sauce
In a bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth—think of it as giving your future sauce a nice little spa treatment!
Step 3: Combine Everything in the Crockpot
Place the chicken pieces in your trusty crockpot and pour that glorious sauce over them. Give it a gentle stir so every piece of chicken gets coated in that sweet orange goodness.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or high for around 3-4 hours. The aroma wafting through your house will make you feel like you’ve stepped into an upscale restaurant (in your PJs).
Step 5: Thicken That Sauce
About half an hour before serving, mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir into the crockpot. This will thicken up the sauce nicely—no one wants runny orange chicken!
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Transfer everything onto plates or serve right from the crockpot with hot steamed rice or noodles underneath. Drizzle extra sauce over everything for that perfect finishing touch!
Get ready to watch everyone dig in with big smiles—this Crockpot Orange Chicken is bound to be a hit at your table!
You Must Know
- This delicious Crockpot Orange Chicken offers more than just flavor; it simplifies dinner time.
- You can easily adapt ingredients based on what you have.
- With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, it makes any dinner table feel like a feast.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by preparing your ingredients. Sear the chicken for a few minutes to lock in flavor, then toss everything into the crockpot. Set it on low and let the magic happen while you kick back and relax.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe! Try swapping out orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist. Add some red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, or throw in veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Crockpot Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist, and microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For tender chicken, avoid overcrowding your crockpot.
- It may sound cliché, but patience is key—let it cook low and slow for best flavor.
- Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for that perfect balance.
Sometimes, I whip up this dish when friends come over. Their faces light up with joy as they taste the sweet and tangy flavors—it’s always a hit at gatherings!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
To make delicious Crockpot Orange Chicken, gather the following ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic cloves, ginger, and cornstarch. For added flavor, consider including red pepper flakes or sesame seeds. perfect side dish of roasted vegetables These ingredients create a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Cooking Crockpot Orange Chicken typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the sauce, resulting in incredibly tender meat. Keep an eye on it during the last hour of cooking to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Using a meat thermometer can help you confirm that the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make Crockpot Orange Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Crockpot Orange Chicken ahead of time by marinating the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking. This enhances flavor and makes meal prep easier. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for lunch.
What can I serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Crockpot Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You could also opt for stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the sweetness of the dish. healthy chicken and rice options For a fun twist, try serving it in lettuce wraps for a light appetizer or party dish. light and refreshing garden salad The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize your meal according to your preferences.
Conclusion for Crockpot Orange Chicken:
Crockpot Orange Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. By using simple ingredients like fresh orange juice and soy sauce, you create a delightful sweet and tangy flavor profile that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to make this dish ahead of time for even more convenience during busy weeks. Enjoy pairing it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal that satisfies your cravings!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Crockpot Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crockpot Orange Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, making it a hit for busy weeknights and gatherings alike. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers restaurant-quality results right from your slow cooker. Serve over rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal that will delight your family and guests.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and the cornstarch mixture until smooth.
- Place the chicken pieces in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Stir gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir into the crockpot to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over rice or noodles, drizzling extra sauce on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
