Orange Chicken Crock Pot Recipes: Easy and Delicious Slow Cooker Delights

Orange chicken made in a crock pot offers a convenient and flavorful twist on a popular dish. This article explores various orange chicken crock pot recipes, highlighting their simplicity and delicious results for any mealtime.

1. What is Orange Chicken?

Orange chicken is a Chinese-American dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy and sweet orange sauce. When made in a crock pot, the flavors meld together slowly for a delectable meal.

2. Benefits of Using a Crock Pot for Orange Chicken

Discover the advantages of using a crock pot to make orange chicken:

  • Convenience: Set it and forget it - let the crock pot do the work while you go about your day.

  • Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

  • Enhanced Flavors: The longer cooking time allows the sauce to develop rich, deep flavors.

3. Popular Orange Chicken Crock Pot Recipes

Explore popular recipes that showcase the versatility of orange chicken in a crock pot:

Recipe 1: Easy Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In the crock pot, combine orange marmalade, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger.
  2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Serve over rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Recipe 2: Spicy Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In the crock pot, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and cornstarch until smooth.
  2. Add chicken pieces and orange zest, tossing to coat.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
  4. Serve over steamed vegetables or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions.

4. Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

Enhance your orange chicken crock pot experience with these tips:

  • Chicken Type: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.

  • Sauce Thickness: Adjust the sauce thickness by adding more cornstarch slurry if needed during cooking.

  • Garnishes: Fresh green onions, sesame seeds, or orange zest add a vibrant finish to your dish.

5. Customization and Variations

Make orange chicken your own with these customization ideas:

  • Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits like mandarin or lemon for a unique flavor.

  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha sauce or adding crushed red pepper flakes.

  • Healthy Options: Use low-sodium soy sauce or substitute honey with maple syrup for a healthier alternative.

Conclusion

Orange chicken crock pot recipes offer a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy this beloved dish at home. Whether you prefer a sweet and tangy flavor profile or crave a spicy kick, these recipes provide versatile options that cater to various tastes. Elevate your mealtime with the ease and deliciousness of orange chicken made in a crock pot, perfect for busy weekdays or relaxing weekends.




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