Orange Chicken Slow Cooker Recipe: Easy and Flavorful Dinner Delight

Cooking orange chicken in a slow cooker offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this popular dish without much effort. Perfect for busy days or when you want a hands-off cooking experience, this recipe combines tender chicken with a tangy and sweet orange sauce that's sure to satisfy your taste buds. Learn how to prepare this orange chicken slow cooker recipe and enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal preparation.

1. Ingredients for Orange Chicken Slow Cooker Recipe

Chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless: About 2 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Orange marmalade: 1 cup, for the sweet citrus flavor.
Soy sauce: 1/2 cup, adds savory umami taste.
Orange juice: 1/4 cup, for additional citrusy tang.
Garlic cloves, minced: 3 cloves, for aromatic flavor.
Ginger, grated or minced: 1 tablespoon, adds a hint of spice.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons, to thicken the sauce.
Water: 2 tablespoons, for mixing with cornstarch.
Green onions, chopped: For garnish (optional).
Cooked rice or noodles: To serve with the orange chicken.

2. Instructions for Making Orange Chicken in a Slow Cooker

Prepare the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces into the slow cooker.
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, orange juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until well combined.
Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
Cook Slowly: Cover the slow cooker 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 the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker with the chicken and sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
Serve: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the orange chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

3. Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender in slow cooker recipes, but you can use chicken breasts if preferred.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding the cornstarch slurry. If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add more orange marmalade or a touch of honey.
Garnish: Freshly chopped cilantro or sesame seeds can also be used as a garnish for added flavor and texture.

4. Conclusion

This orange chicken slow cooker recipe is a fantastic option for a flavorful and hassle-free dinner. By following these simple steps and using quality ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that's sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Enjoy the combination of citrusy orange flavors with tender chicken, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Try this recipe today and elevate your dinner game with minimal effort and maximum taste!