Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re in search of a flavorful and easy-to-prepare meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, the crockpot orange chicken recipe is the perfect solution. Using a slow cooker, this dish lets the beautiful flavors of orange and savory chicken meld together effortlessly, turning an ordinary dinner into a delightful experience for the entire family.

I still remember the first time I tried this recipe; it was a cold winter evening at my grandmother’s house. The smell of oranges mixed with the savory chicken aroma filled the house, bringing everyone to the kitchen, eager to taste this exciting dish. My grandmother’s crockpot orange chicken was always a family favorite, providing warmth and comfort during our family gatherings. Every time I make it now, it feels like bringing a piece of that joyful past into my dining room.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe

This recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and mouthwatering flavor. You’ll appreciate its simplicity since all elements cook together seamlessly in the crockpot. The combination of orange zest and juice gives a fresh and tangy flavor, while the tender, slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the delightful ingredients. It’s a great choice for busy weekdays when you want a nutritious homemade meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Orange Chicken

The quality of ingredients makes all the difference. Opt for fresh oranges to bring out the zest and deep flavor in the sauce. If you’re out of soy sauce, tamari acts as a great substitute, offering a gluten-free alternative. Remember, using chicken thighs ensures tender and juicy results, but if you prefer to use chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time slightly as they tend to cook faster.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by preparing the ingredients. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Zest one of the fresh oranges and extract the juice from both. Chop garlic cloves finely.

Step 2

In the crockpot, combine chicken pieces, orange zest, orange juice, soy sauce (or tamari), grated garlic, and honey. Stir everything to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 3

Set the crockpot on low heat and cook for about 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to allow the flavors to incorporate well.

Step 4

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Add it to the crockpot to thicken the sauce, stirring well.

Step 5

Once done, serve the orange chicken directly from the crockpot to a warm serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an additional burst of flavor.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep for up to 1 month. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator first if frozen, and reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. If you’re vegetarian, substitute the chicken with thick slices of tofu or cauliflower florets for a plant-based alternative. You could also try using lime juice and zest for a citrusy variation.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa. Vegetables like broccoli or snap peas complement it well, adding vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your plate. Serve it during weekend family dinners or special occasions to impress your guests with its delightful aroma and taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, frozen chicken can be used for this recipe; however, it’s best to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for more even cooking and to ensure the sauce flavors are fully absorbed.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe without a crockpot? Absolutely, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop. Simply marinate the chicken with the same ingredients and cook over medium heat until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce is thickened.

How can I make this dish sweeter? If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of honey according to your taste. You can also add brown sugar or a bit of hoisin sauce for additional sweetness and flavor complexity.

Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe

This Crockpot Orange Chicken is a delicious and easy recipe that combines sweet and savory flavors to create a meal everyone will love.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours hours

Total Time: 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 pounds chicken breasts boneless and skinless
• ▢ 1 cup orange marmalade
• ▢ 0.5 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
• ▢ 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium recommended

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
• In a bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce. Pour over the chicken.
• Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Shred the chicken with two forks and serve with the sauce from the crockpot.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.