Easy Orange Chicken Crock Pot Recipe: Deliciously Simple
Looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy the flavors of orange chicken? This easy crock pot recipe delivers all the taste without the fuss. Perfect for busy days or when you simply want a delicious meal waiting for you at home.
1. Ingredients for Easy Orange Chicken Crock Pot Recipe
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Orange Marmalade: Provides the sweet and tangy orange flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth of umami and saltiness to the dish.
- Garlic and Ginger: Enhances the savory profile with aromatic notes.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed for a burst of citrusy freshness.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a perfect consistency.
- Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Optional garnishes for added flavor and texture.
2. How to Make Easy Orange Chicken in a Crock Pot
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Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together orange marmalade, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and orange juice.
- Adjust sweetness and tanginess to taste.
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Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot:
- Place the chicken pieces into the crock pot.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
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Cook:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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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.
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Serve:
- Once the sauce has thickened, serve the orange chicken over cooked rice or noodles.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
3. Tips for Making the Perfect Easy Orange Chicken
- Chicken Cut: Ensure uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust cornstarch slurry amount for desired thickness.
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, if desired.
4. Why Choose This Easy Orange Chicken Crock Pot Recipe?
- Convenience: Set it and forget it—perfect for busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults for its sweet and savory appeal.
- Versatility: Pair with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
5. Conclusion
This easy orange chicken crock pot recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a popular Chinese-inspired dish at home. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for any day of the week. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness of tender chicken in a sweet and tangy orange sauce!