Orange Chicken in Crock Pot: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Orange chicken is a favorite dish for many, known for its sweet and tangy flavors. Preparing it in a crock pot makes it even more convenient, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make orange chicken in a crock pot, ensuring a delicious and hassle-free cooking experience.

1. Ingredients Needed

To make a tasty orange chicken in your crock pot, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
• Sauce:
  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• Thickening:
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
• Garnish:
  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds

2. Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare your orange chicken in the crock pot:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Cut the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier serving.
• Season: Lightly season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Stir Well: Ensure all the ingredients are well combined to create a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Cook in the Crock Pot

• Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the bottom of the crock pot.
• Pour the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
• Cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

3. Thickening the Sauce

• Mix Cornstarch and Water: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
• Add to Crock Pot: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, add the cornstarch mixture to the crock pot. Stir well to combine.
• Continue Cooking: Cover and continue cooking for the remaining time, allowing the sauce to thicken.

4. Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Once the chicken is ready, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Side Dishes: Serve the orange chicken over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
• Noodles: Alternatively, serve the chicken with cooked noodles for a different twist.

5. Tips for the Best Orange Chicken

• High-Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh garlic and ginger make a significant difference.
• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of orange marmalade and brown sugar according to your taste preferences.
• Spice Level: Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. Omit them entirely for a milder dish.

6. Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Conclusion

Making orange chicken in a crock pot is an easy and convenient way to enjoy this beloved dish at home. With minimal prep work and simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow this guide to ensure your orange chicken turns out delicious every time, bringing a taste of your favorite takeout into your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!