Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe 🍊🐔

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a meal that’s been cooking all day. This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is one of those recipes that brings comfort and joy with every bite. My family absolutely loves it! The sweet and tangy orange sauce perfectly coats tender chicken thighs, making for a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whenever I make this for dinner, the kids eagerly gather around the table, and there’s never a leftover in sight. Serve it over rice, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a slow cooker, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
2. Add the Chicken: Place the cut chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Stir the chicken pieces until they are well coated in the sauce.
3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender.
4. Serve: Once cooked, serve the orange chicken over rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours and 10 minutes (high)

How to Serve

• Over Rice: Spoon the orange chicken over a bed of steamed rice for a comforting meal.
• Garnish: Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
• Side Dishes: Pair with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Chicken Thighs: They stay moist and tender during cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
2. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey to 2 tablespoons or use a sugar substitute.
3. Thickening Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
4. Add Veggies: For a complete one-pot meal, add bell peppers or broccoli during the last hour of cooking.
5. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus juices, like lemon or lime, for a different flavor profile.
• Pineapple Orange Chicken: Add diced pineapple to the slow cooker for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice Options: Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Wrap It Up: Use the orange chicken as a filling for wraps or tacos.
• With Noodles: Serve over cooked noodles for a delicious twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the orange chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

• Yes, but they may dry out more easily. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

1. Can I use bottled orange juice?

• Yes, fresh-squeezed orange juice is great, but bottled works just fine for convenience.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

1. What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

• You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as a substitute.

1. How can I make the sauce thicker?

• Mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

1. Can I cook this on the stovetop?

• Yes, you can cook it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

1. What side dishes pair well with orange chicken?

• Steamed broccoli, fried rice, or a simple green salad are great options.

1. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

• Yes, add veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition.

1. Is it okay to leave the chicken in the slow cooker after it’s done?

• It’s best to serve it right away. If left too long, the chicken may become dry.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a fantastic meal that combines convenience with delightful flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The sweet and tangy sauce, combined with tender chicken, makes for a dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you serve it over rice or with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness that awaits!

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