Orange chicken is a beloved dish that combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with savory, tender chicken. This recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is perfect for those looking for a hassle-free, delicious meal that the whole family can enjoy. The dish is popular due to its simplicity—just a few ingredients and minimal prep time make it a go-to for busy weeknights. The slow cooker is a game-changer, allowing you to set it and forget it, making this dish ideal for those with a hectic schedule. As it simmers throughout the day, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and rich in flavor. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

History and Origin of Orange Chicken

Orange chicken, a staple in American-Chinese cuisine, has its roots in the traditional Chinese dish “General Tso’s Chicken,” which was later adapted to suit American tastes. The dish became popular in the U.S. during the 1980s, with its sweet, tangy sauce and crispy chicken appealing to a wide audience. The original recipe involves frying chicken, but this slow cooker version simplifies the process by allowing the chicken to cook slowly, absorbing the orange-flavored sauce without the need for deep frying, making it healthier and easier to prepare.

List of Ingredients

This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe requires a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. The key components include boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, fresh orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch for thickening the sauce.

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Chicken: Choose high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are more flavorful and remain tender after slow cooking.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal for the best flavor. Avoid using concentrated juice, which can be overly sweet.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Brown Sugar: Provides the sweetness that balances the tanginess of the orange juice.
• Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger add a depth of flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce at the end of cooking.

Substitutions:

• Chicken: Substitute with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Soy Sauce: Replace with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Brown Sugar: Use honey or a sugar substitute for a healthier option.

Tips for Selecting Ingredients:

• Chicken: Opt for free-range or organic chicken for better flavor and texture.
• Oranges: Choose ripe, juicy oranges with firm skin for the best juice.
• Soy Sauce: Look for brands that don’t contain added preservatives or artificial ingredients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to coat each piece thoroughly.
• Marinade (Optional): For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken (Optional)

• Browning: While optional, browning the chicken in a skillet with a little oil before adding it to the slow cooker can add extra depth of flavor. This step is especially recommended if you prefer a richer taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

• Layering: Place the chicken pieces at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
• Cooking: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

• Cornstarch Slurry: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cover and let it cook for the remaining time.
• Final Adjustments: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce for saltiness or a little more sugar for sweetness.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Serving: Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, serve the orange chicken over steamed rice or with your preferred side dish.
• Garnishing: Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Tips for Optimizing Flavor

• Marination: Marinating the chicken not only enhances flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
• Browning: Although optional, browning the chicken before slow cooking adds a layer of caramelization, contributing to a deeper flavor profile.

Adjustments for Different Slow Cooker Sizes

• Small Slow Cooker (2-3 quarts): Halve the recipe ingredients to avoid overfilling.
• Large Slow Cooker (6-8 quarts): The original recipe should fit well, but ensure the chicken is in a single layer for even cooking.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Preventing Dry Chicken

To avoid dry chicken, use chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they are more forgiving and retain moisture better during slow cooking. Also, ensure the slow cooker is not overfilled, and don’t cook the chicken for too long—4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high is ideal.

Balancing Sweet and Tangy Flavors

To maintain the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, taste the sauce before slow cooking. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar. If it’s too tangy, increase the brown sugar or add a little honey. Fresh orange juice is key to achieving a naturally balanced flavor.

Adjusting Cooking Times for Frozen vs. Thawed Chicken

If using frozen chicken, add 1-2 hours to the cooking time on low or 30-60 minutes on high. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to thaw chicken before slow cooking, as cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and a less tender result.

Serving Suggestions

Best Side Dishes

Orange chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white or jasmine rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce. For a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa. Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers, add color and nutritional balance to the meal.

Presentation Tips

To make the dish visually appealing, garnish with thinly sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a few orange zest curls. Serve the chicken over rice on a large platter or in individual bowls for a polished look.

Beverage Pairings

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as a pilsner complements the dish’s sweet and tangy flavors. For non-alcoholic options, iced green tea or a citrus-infused water would refresh the palate.

Recipe Variations

Healthier Versions

For a healthier version of slow cooker orange chicken, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar. You can also reduce the amount of soy sauce or opt for a low-sodium version to cut back on salt intake. For an even lighter dish, use skinless chicken breasts and pair the dish with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation

To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Tempeh can be sliced into bite-sized pieces. Follow the same steps for marination and slow cooking, adjusting the cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking. You can also use vegetable broth instead of any chicken-based ingredients.

How to Spice It Up

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of red chili flakes or a tablespoon of Sriracha sauce to the marinade. You can also include freshly chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. For a more complex spicy-sweet flavor, try adding a bit of gochujang, a Korean chili paste that pairs well with the sweetness of the orange sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect texture.

Reheating Tips

Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Freezing Tips

For longer storage, freeze the orange chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the methods above to maintain flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking or Undercooking the Chicken

To avoid overcooking, set a timer and stick to the recommended cooking times (4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high). Undercooking can be prevented by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Imbalance of Flavors

An imbalance of sweet and tangy flavors often occurs if the ratio of orange juice, soy sauce, and sugar isn’t right. Taste the sauce before slow cooking and adjust as needed.

Using Incorrect Orange Juice

Using concentrated or store-bought orange juice can result in an overly sweet sauce. Freshly squeezed orange juice is best for achieving a natural, balanced flavor.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but increase the cooking time by about an hour on low to ensure the meat is cooked through and tender.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes, especially if you need a gluten-free option.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure all other ingredients, like cornstarch, are certified gluten-free.

Can I cook this on high if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but be sure to monitor the chicken to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken recipe is both simple and delicious, making it a perfect choice for a hassle-free meal that the whole family will love. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for a healthier version, a spicy twist, or a vegetarian adaptation, this dish is sure to be a hit. We encourage you to make it your own and share your unique variations and experiences with others!

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with tender, juicy chicken that has been slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal preparation and a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a takeout favorite right at home, with the added benefit of being customizable to suit your dietary preferences and flavor cravings.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders cut into bite size pieces
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ cups orange marmalade
• ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds more for garnish
• scallions for garnish

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Instructions

• Cut the chicken into approximately 1″ pieces.
• Pour the cornstarch into a shallow dish, add the chicken, and toss to evenly coat.
• Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and add the coated chicken. Lightly brown on each side, not cooking thoroughly.
• Transfer the browned chicken into the basin of a 6 quart slow cooker.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes and sesame seeds.
• Pour the sauce over the chicken.
• Stir everything to combine.
• Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours. Check and stir halfway through to make sure it isn’t burning.
• Garnish with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
• Serve over rice.

Notes

For the best results, use fresh orange juice and consider browning the chicken before slow cooking to add extra depth of flavor. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your taste, and feel free to experiment with variations like adding heat or making a vegetarian version. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable, making it easy to create a dish that suits your personal palate.