Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that combines sweet and tangy flavors with minimal effort, Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This dish transforms the classic Chinese takeout favorite into a home-cooked meal that your entire family will love. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

To prepare this mouthwatering orange chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup of orange juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 1/4 cup of honey
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon of minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Trim the Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs or breasts. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Season: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 2: Make the Orange Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil until well combined.
2. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce later on.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Add to Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the slow cooker. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. Final Touch: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cornstarch slurry to the slow cooker and stir well. This will help thicken the sauce to a desirable consistency.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or honey if desired.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the orange chicken over a bed of cooked rice.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh orange juice and zest.
• Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: While chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender when cooked, you can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substitute honey with brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.

Conclusion

This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a delightful explosion of flavors that will make it a household favorite. With its comforting sweetness and vibrant citrus notes, it’s a fantastic way to bring the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant into your kitchen. Try it today for a hassle-free dinner that everyone will enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Serving Tips

1. Pair with Sides: This orange chicken is delicious served over a bed of fluffy white rice, but you can also pair it with:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers complement the dish beautifully.
• Fried Rice: For a heartier option, serve it with fried rice for an extra flavor boost.
• Noodles: Consider serving it over chow mein or lo mein noodles for a delightful twist.

1. Garnish: Enhance the presentation by garnishing the dish with:

• Sliced Green Onions: Adds freshness and color.
• Sesame Seeds: Provides a nice crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Cilantro: For those who enjoy it, chopped cilantro can add an extra layer of freshness.

1. Serving Temperature: Serve the orange chicken hot from the slow cooker. If it has thickened up too much during cooking, you can stir in a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration:

• Cool Before Storing: Allow the orange chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

1. Freezing:

• Portion Control: If you want to freeze the orange chicken, divide it into portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Duration: It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

1. Reheating:

• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: For larger portions, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

1. Avoid Repeated Freezing: It’s best not to refreeze previously frozen orange chicken. Only freeze what you plan to use to maintain the best texture and flavor.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken at its best, whether it’s freshly made or reheated later!

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

2. Is this orange chicken recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. It features a sweet and tangy flavor profile from the orange juice and honey. However, if you prefer a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking.

3. Can I make this orange chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce (often labeled as tamari) instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.

4. What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated. You can also incorporate the orange chicken into other dishes, such as salads, wraps, or stir-fries for added flavor and variety.

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