Healthy Orange Chicken Crock Pot Recipe: Delicious and Nutritious Slow Cooker Meal

Enjoy a flavorful and health-conscious meal with this easy-to-make healthy orange chicken crock pot recipe. Using fresh ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prepare a satisfying dish that’s both tasty and nourishing.

1. Ingredients:

Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Orange Juice: 1 cup, freshly squeezed.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup.
Honey or Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup, for natural sweetness.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated.
Orange Zest: 1 tablespoon, for citrus flavor.
Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon, for richness.
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons, for thickening.
Green Onions: 2 stalks, chopped, for garnish.
Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, for garnish.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

2. Instructions:

Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, orange zest, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Add Chicken to Crock Pot: Place the chicken pieces in the crock pot and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
Cooking Process: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. You can also cook on high heat for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the crock pot, mixing well with the chicken and sauce. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low heat, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Serve: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the healthy orange chicken over cooked brown rice or quinoa. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

3. Tips for a Healthier Dish:

Use Lean Protein: Opt for lean chicken breast to reduce fat content.
Natural Sweeteners: Substitute refined sugars with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
Low-Sodium Options: Choose low-sodium soy sauce to control salt intake.

4. Conclusion:

This healthy orange chicken crock pot recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional takeout options. Packed with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, it’s a nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy. Incorporate this recipe into your meal planning for a flavorful and wholesome dining experience.