This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a yummy dish that’s perfect for busy days. It features tender chicken cooked in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that your family will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless thighs for moist, tender meat, but breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use chicken breast; it will be leaner but slightly drier.
Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, but you can use store-bought if that’s what you have. For a fun twist, try substituting with pineapple juice or lemon juice for something zesty!
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is a great choice to keep the dish lighter. You can swap it with coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative. Be mindful, as it may alter the flavor slightly.
Honey vs. Brown Sugar: Both sweeteners work well. I lean towards honey for its floral flavor, but brown sugar adds a lovely caramel-like taste. You can also use maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Sesame Oil: This is optional, but it adds a deep, nutty flavor. If you’re avoiding it, olive oil or sunflower oil is a good substitute. Just skip the oil altogether if you want a lighter dish!
How Do I Thicken the Sauce Without Clumping?
Thickening the sauce is an important step for that delicious coating on the chicken! The secret is to make a cornstarch slurry—that’s where the magic happens.
- Mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Add this mixture to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving to allow it to work its magic.
- Stir well and ensure the heat is set to high so it thickens nicely!
- Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally. If it’s not thickening as desired, let it cook a bit longer.
Trust me; patience pays off for that perfect sauce consistency!
Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orange juice (preferably fresh)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/3 cup honey or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Orange slices, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Time Needed:
This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and then cooks for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. A perfect dish for a busy day with minimal work and maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In the slow cooker, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
2. Add the Chicken:
Now, toss the cut pieces of chicken into the slow cooker. Make sure to coat them evenly in that delicious sauce!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce perfectly.
5. Add the Slurry:
Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker. If you’re using sesame oil, add it now too. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
6. Final Cooking:
Cover and continue cooking on high for another 20-30 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken up nicely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, dish up the orange chicken over cooked white rice. Top with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and orange slices for a beautiful finish!
Enjoy your delicious and easy slow cooker orange chicken!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to add extra cooking time—about 1-1.5 hours on high or 2-3 hours on low. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F) before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything and store the chicken and sauce in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just add the contents to the slow cooker straight from the fridge and adjust cooking times as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or orange juice to keep the chicken moist!
What Can I Serve With This Orange Chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with white rice, but you can also serve it over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a healthier option. A side salad also complements the flavors nicely!
