Crock Pot Orange Chicken Recipe: Easy and Flavorful Slow Cooker Delight

A crock pot orange chicken recipe offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this popular Chinese-inspired dish at home. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This article explores a simple yet flavorful crock pot orange chicken recipe that is sure to become a favorite for any mealtime.

1. What is Crock Pot Orange Chicken?

Crock pot orange chicken is a variation of the classic Chinese-American dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a slow cooker with a flavorful orange sauce. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that can be easily prepared at home.

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 attend to other tasks.
Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Enhanced Flavors: The long cooking time allows the sauce to develop rich, deep flavors.

3. Simple Crock Pot Orange Chicken Recipe

Enjoy this easy-to-follow recipe that yields delicious crock pot orange chicken:

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orange marmalade
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the chicken pieces in the crock pot. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
Serve: Serve the crock pot orange chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.

4. Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Orange Chicken

Enhance your crock pot orange chicken with these tips:

Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
Sauce Adjustments: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce by varying the amount of orange marmalade or vinegar.
Garnish Creatively: Fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or orange zest can also be used as garnishes for additional flavor.

5. Customization and Variations

Make this crock pot orange chicken recipe your own with these customization ideas:

Add Vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrients.
Spicy Twist: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sriracha sauce for a spicier version.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free for a gluten-free meal.

Conclusion

This crock pot orange chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the flavors of Chinese cuisine. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it's perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Enjoy the tender chicken and flavorful sauce served over rice, and impress your family and friends with this homemade take on a restaurant favorite. Try this recipe today and savor the delightful flavors of crock pot orange chicken in the comfort of your own home.