Orange Chicken in Crock Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Delicious Meal

Cooking orange chicken in a crock pot is a convenient way to enjoy this flavorful dish with minimal effort. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make orange chicken in a crock pot, ensuring a tasty and hassle-free meal.

1. Ingredients Needed

To prepare orange chicken in a crock pot, gather the following ingredients:

  • Chicken:
    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 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)
  • 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 into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy serving.
  • Season: Lightly season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  • Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  • Stir Well: Ensure all the ingredients are well combined for 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 and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

3. Thicken 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 and stir well.
  • Continue Cooking: Cover and continue cooking for the remaining time, allowing the sauce to thicken.

4. Serving Suggestions

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

Tips for the Best Orange Chicken

  • High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of orange marmalade and brown sugar to suit your taste.
  • Spice Level: Control the spice level by adjusting the red pepper flakes. Omit them for a milder dish.

5. Storing and Reheating

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

6. Conclusion

Cooking orange chicken in a crock pot is an easy and effective way to enjoy this delicious dish with minimal preparation. By following these steps and tips, you can create a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of homemade orange chicken, perfect for any occasion!




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