Panda Express Orange Chicken Recipe Crockpot: Easy and Delicious Homemade Version

Craving the iconic flavors of Panda Express orange chicken but prefer the convenience of using a crockpot? You're in luck! Here’s a simple and satisfying recipe to recreate this beloved dish at home using your slow cooker:

1. Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orange marmalade
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish
Cooked rice, for serving

2. Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Place the chicken pieces in the crockpot. 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 and water until smooth. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Serve: Serve the orange chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoy: Dig in and savor the homemade goodness of Panda Express-inspired orange chicken right from your crockpot!

3. Tips for Success:

For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving by checking its internal temperature (165°F or 74°C).

Now you can enjoy the delicious taste of Panda Express orange chicken from the comfort of your home, thanks to this easy crockpot recipe. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful meal with minimal effort!