Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: Delicious Recipes for Busy Days

Making delicious slow cooker orange chicken at home is easier than you think. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that's perfect for busy days. Here are some easy recipes to try in your slow cooker:

1. Classic Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 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 hoisin sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Place chicken pieces in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
  4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
  5. Serve over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

2. Healthier Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
  5. Serve over quinoa or steamed vegetables, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.

3. Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

  • Chicken Type: Use chicken thighs for a more tender result, or opt for chicken breasts for a leaner option.

  • Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cornstarch slurry, depending on your preference.

  • Flavor Variations: Customize your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last hour of cooking.

4. Conclusion

Enjoying easy slow cooker orange chicken at home is a convenient way to savor a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or a healthier version, these slow cooker dishes are sure to please your taste buds and simplify mealtime on busy days.




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