When you think about comfort food, nothing quite captivates the heart like a hearty dish of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal with family. Let the slow cooker do its magic while you enjoy more time to relax or catch up with friends. The combination of ingredients creates a delightful explosion of flavors that make this dish one you will come back to again and again.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe
There are countless reasons why Slow Cooker Orange Chicken has earned a special place in our hearts. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You simply have to gather the ingredients, do a bit of chopping, and let the slow cooker handle the rest. This hands-off approach allows you to focus on other tasks or unwind after a long day.
Moreover, the flavors are exceptional. The sweetness of orange marmalade blends beautifully with the savory notes of soy sauce and the warmth of ginger and garlic. You’ll get a perfect balance of flavors that satisfies even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table. It’s versatile, too. Whether served over rice, alongside steamed vegetables, or paired with a fresh salad, this dish adapts seamlessly to your meal preferences.
Let’s dive deeper into creating this wonderful dish, one step at a time.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups orange marmalade
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- Scallions (chopped, for garnish)
These basic ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is a great way to hone your culinary skills!
How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Creating a delicious Slow Cooker Orange Chicken dish is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy-to-follow steps, and soon you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering meal.
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and ensures that every bite is juicy and tender.
- Coat in Cornstarch: Place the chicken pieces into a bowl and sprinkle them with cornstarch. Toss them until they’re well-coated. This step not only adds texture but also helps the sauce adhere better to the chicken once it’s cooked.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken pieces. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they form a light golden crust. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the slow cooker.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once browned, carefully transfer the chicken to your slow cooker. This is where all the flavors will meld beautifully over time.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the orange marmalade, low-sodium soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. Whisk them together until well mixed.
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour this savory-sweet sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that every piece is well-coated.
- Cook: Cover your slow cooker, set it to low heat, and let it cook for about 3 hours. Halfway through, give it a gentle stir to ensure even cooking and distribution of the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: When the chicken is fully cooked and tender, it’s time to serve. Garnish with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Once you’ve followed these easy directions, you’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, there are several delightful options to consider. The classic way to enjoy this dish is over a bed of fluffy rice—white, brown, or jasmine rice works beautifully. The rice acts as a wonderful base, soaking up the sweet and savory sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a drop of that delicious goodness.
You can also pair this dish with steamed vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers complement the flavors quite well. Just add them to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow them to soften a bit without losing their vibrant colors.
For a lighter option, consider serving the orange chicken over a crisp salad. Toss together mixed greens, cucumbers, and avocado, then drizzle with a light vinaigrette to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
The presentation can be enhanced with a few extra garnishes, such as additional scallions or sesame seeds, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Achieving the perfect Slow Cooker Orange Chicken can be a breeze with a few expert tips. Here’s how to elevate your dish to new heights:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and ginger. Fresh ingredients add a depth of flavor that can significantly enhance your dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a bit more heat, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, if you like a milder flavor, you can skip the red pepper altogether or reduce the quantity.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight. This allows the flavors to absorb into the chicken for an even more delicious result.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: While it may be tempting to skip browning the chicken, this step is crucial for building flavor and texture. The caramelization during browning adds richness that slow cooking alone won’t achieve.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
By following these tips, your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is sure to impress not only you but also everyone who gets to indulge in it.
How to Store Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
If you’ve made a big batch of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken or have leftovers, storing them properly is key to keeping the flavors fresh. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
When reheating, it’s best to do so gradually. You can reheat in the microwave in short intervals or in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. This ensures that the chicken stays tender and the flavors remain intact.
Variations of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
While the classic Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is delicious on its own, experimenting with variations can bring new life to this beloved dish. Here are a few ideas you can try:
- Citrus Medley: Instead of just using orange marmalade, try mixing in some lemon or grapefruit zest for a zesty twist.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate pineapple chunks or mango to add a tropical flair. Just reduce the orange marmalade slightly to balance the sweetness.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative. Ensure you use firm tofu, and coat it in cornstarch for a nice texture.
- Spicy Orange Chicken: Add sriracha or another hot sauce to the sauce mix for a spicy kick. This pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the orange.
- Ginger-Lemon Variation: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice and extra ginger to give the dish an aromatic brightness that pairs beautifully with the sweet sauce.
With these variations, you can keep your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken exciting and new every time you prepare it.
FAQ About Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
What kind of chicken should I use for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
For the best results, use boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. They cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
Can I make this recipe in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, if you prefer a quicker option, you can prepare this recipe on the stovetop in a pot. After searing the chicken, add the sauce and let it simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Feel free to include steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Ensure even cooking.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil For browning the chicken.
- ⅓ cup cornstarch Coat chicken pieces for texture.
For the Sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce Adds savory flavor.
- 1 ½ cups orange marmalade Provides sweetness and tang.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar Balances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger For a warm spice flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the aroma.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Adds richness to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes For a hint of heat.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds Adds texture and garnish.
For Garnish
- Scallions chopped For garnish before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Coat the chicken pieces evenly with cornstarch.
Browning
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
Sauce Preparation
- In a bowl, combine orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. Whisk until mixed.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for about 3 hours, stirring halfway through.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender before serving.
Serving
- Garnish with scallions and additional sesame seeds before serving.
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