The sweet, citrusy aroma of orange chicken wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite takeout joint—without ever leaving home. This Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken is my go-to recipe for those hectic weeknights when I crave something tasty yet effortless. With just five minutes of prep, I can set everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I tackle the rest of my evening. Not only is it family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults, but it’s also a comforting one-pot meal that brings everyone to the dinner table. Imagine tender chicken pieces embraced by a luscious, tangy sauce, making every bite a delightful experience. Who says meal prep has to be complicated? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will have you serving up smiles in no time! What do you think—are you ready to give it a try?
Why is this recipe a game changer?
Ease of Preparation: With just five minutes of prep time, you can effortlessly whip up a delicious dinner that cooks itself while you focus on other tasks.
Family Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when everyone needs a little comfort food.
Incredible Flavor: The sweet, tangy orange sauce transforms simple chicken into a gourmet meal that echoes takeout favorites, all made in your own kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or swap the orange marmalade for other fruit preserves like pineapple for a unique twist.
Leftover Love: This recipe allows for fantastic leftovers, improving in flavor over time and making for easy lunches throughout the week.
Once you try this one pot meal, you’ll be adding it to your regular dinner rotation!
Crockpot Orange Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious dinner with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Chicken (2 lb boneless skinless breasts or tenders) – Main protein source; cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking. Both fresh and thawed frozen chicken work well.
For the Sauce
- Cornstarch (1/3 cup) – Binds to the chicken, creating a crispy crust when browned; essential for texture, so do not omit.
- Olive Oil (4 tbsp) – Used for browning the chicken to enhance flavor; ensure it’s heated properly before adding chicken.
- Orange Marmalade (1½ cups) – Provides sweetness and tanginess, forming the base of the sauce; other fruit preserves could be used, but flavor will vary.
- Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce (½ cup) – Adds depth and saltiness; consider low-sodium options for dietary restrictions.
- White Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Balances the sweetness and adds acidity for a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Sesame Oil (1 tsp) – For an authentic Asian-inspired flavor profile; should not be omitted.
- Ground Ginger (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and spice; can be replaced with fresh ginger for a more vibrant flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor that brightens the sauce and chicken.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp) – For a slight heat; adjust according to your taste preferences.
For Garnishing
- Sesame Seeds (1 tsp plus additional for garnish) – Enhances texture and adds visual appeal to your finished dish.
- Chopped Scallions (for garnish) – Provides freshness and crunch; optional but recommended for an extra touch of flavor.
Now, gather these ingredients and let’s create this irresistibly flavorful Crockpot Orange Chicken that is sure to delight your family!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking throughout. In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, coating them thoroughly to achieve that perfect crispy texture. The cornstarch will help bind to the chicken and create a delicious crust once browned.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, browning them for about 4-5 minutes. Aim for a golden exterior without cooking them through, as they will finish cooking in the crockpot.
Step 3: Transfer to the Crockpot
After browning, use tongs to transfer the chicken pieces to the slow cooker, leaving the skillet off the heat. Ensure even distribution to allow the sauce to envelop all the chicken pieces. This step is crucial for ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully as they cook together.
Step 4: Whisk the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the orange marmalade, reduced-sodium soy sauce, white vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth to create a luscious sauce that will bring out the best in your Crockpot Orange Chicken.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, using a spatula to stir and coat all chicken pieces evenly. This ensures that every bite will be flavorful and infused with that irresistible sweet and tangy taste.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. Stir the chicken halfway through cooking to help the flavors meld, ensuring that the sauce maintains its luscious consistency and coats the chicken nicely as it cooks to tender perfection.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the cooking time is complete and the chicken is tender and cooked through, carefully ladle the orange chicken over steamed rice or your choice of base. Garnish with additional sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a fresh and crunchy finish before serving, bringing to life your delicious Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken!
How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken
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Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will deepen, making it even tastier the next day.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
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Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Enjoy this irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken again!
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Serving Note: When reheating, consider serving it over fresh rice or adding fresh vegetables to revitalize the dish for an easy weeknight meal.
What to Serve with Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken
Imagine an inviting family dinner table, filled with vibrant colors and comforting aromas that entice every member of the family to gather and enjoy.
- Fluffy White Rice: Perfectly absorbs the tangy sauce, creating a delightful base that complements each tender chicken bite.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a fresh, crisp element and vibrant color to your plate, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: A crunchy companion that introduces a different texture and rich tastes, enhancing your meal with a delightful Chinese-inspired theme.
- Cauliflower Rice: A lower-carb option that pairs beautifully, offering a subtle flavor without overshadowing the orange chicken’s sweetness.
- Sesame Noodles: Tangy and slightly nutty, these noodles offer a delightful contrast, making every mouthful a burst of flavor.
- Coconut Milk Chai: This warm, spiced tea not only refreshes the palate but also provides a cozy end to your family feast.
Expert Tips for Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken
- Coat Evenly: Always coat chicken in cornstarch thoroughly prior to browning for the best texture; skipping this can result in rubbery chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Brown the chicken in batches if necessary. Too much chicken in the skillet will steam instead of brown, affecting the flavor.
- Timing is Key: Stick to low heat for tender chicken. Cooking on high for too long can lead to stringy, dry chicken pieces.
- Thickening Sauce: For a thicker sauce, mix additional cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add Flavor: Don’t hesitate to add veggies like bell peppers or snap peas to the crockpot during the last hour for a complete meal and extra nutrients.
- Perfect Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days for improved flavor, making it even better the next day!
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the chicken and coat it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, the sauce can be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s kept in a sealed container to prevent any flavor loss. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the chicken to the slow cooker, pour the sauce over it, and follow the regular cooking instructions. With this approach, you’ll enjoy the same delicious results with minimal effort, saving time on busy weeknights!
Crockpot Orange Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe for a meal that fits your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a tropical touch, enhancing the dish’s richness without dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add an extra teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for those who love a little heat in every bite.
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Vibrant Veggies: Toss in thinly sliced bell peppers and snap peas during the last hour of cooking for an added crunch and nutrition boost.
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Pineapple Paradise: Swap orange marmalade with pineapple preserves for a bright, refreshing variation that pairs perfectly with chicken.
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Crispy Topping: Before serving, broil the chicken for a few minutes to achieve an enticing golden crust, adding to the dish’s texture.
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Cauliflower Rice Base: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still delivers all the flavors of this satisfying meal.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or cilantro just before serving to give your dish an aromatic lift and fresh herbal notes.
Once you’ve made this dish, don’t forget to check out our tips on storage and ideal pairings for perfect serving suggestions that will elevate your overall dining experience!
Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders (2 lbs) for this dish. It’s important to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Both fresh and thawed frozen chicken work well, so don’t worry if you forgot to take the chicken out of the freezer!
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You’ll find that the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Can I freeze the Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Certainly! If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze the orange chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers. When freezing, leave a bit of space at the top for the sauce to expand.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin or thick?
If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can create a thickening agent by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water. Stir this mixture into the crockpot about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, and it will thicken beautifully. Alternately, if the sauce is too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe calls for soy sauce, which can include gluten; however, you can easily substitute it with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, ensure that the orange marmalade used does not contain any allergens if you or your loved ones have specific dietary restrictions.
Can I modify the recipe by adding vegetables?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the crockpot about an hour before it’s done cooking. Not only do they add nutritional value, but they also infuse additional flavor into the sauce. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.
Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and toss with cornstarch.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the chicken for 4-5 minutes.
- Transfer browned chicken to the crockpot.
- Combine sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Pour sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
- Cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.
