Crockpot Orange Chicken

The first time I made Crockpot Orange Chicken, I was in the mood for something comforting yet vibrant. I remember returning home after a long day, the scent of citrus wafting through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. The whole house smelled like a cozy restaurant, and I couldn’t wait to dive into tender morsels of chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This dish not only satisfies my cravings but also brings a smile to everyone at the dinner table. It’s such a simple pleasure, being able to create a meal that can turn an ordinary evening into a delightful occasion.

As I stirred the sauce, I could feel the warmth of the kitchen wrapping around me, almost like a hug from a loved one. The combination of orange juice, soy sauce, and a hint of spice made me feel like a culinary artist, painting a beautiful dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, Crockpot Orange Chicken has become my go-to recipe. The best part? It cooks itself while I take care of other things, leaving me with more time to enjoy life.

Join me in creating this comforting dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones. You’ll find that it’s not just about the food; it’s about the connections we make around the dinner table, the stories shared, and the laughter that fills the air. I promise you, once you try this recipe, it will find a special place in your heart and your home.

Crockpot Orange Chicken Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken is essential to ensure that the flavors blend perfectly. Each component plays a pivotal role in creating that harmonious balance between sweet and savory. Let’s dive into the key players that make this dish a standout.

• 1 cup orange juice (from 3-4 oranges) – Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor profile, infusing the dish with a vibrant citrus note.
• ¼ cup rice vinegar – This adds a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the orange juice beautifully.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Brown sugar lends a rich sweetness that balances the acidity of the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – This ingredient brings umami and depth, making the flavors more complex.
• 2 tablespoons minced onion – Onions add a savory base that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (from 1 orange) – Zest adds an extra punch of citrus flavor, elevating the dish to new heights.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha – This brings a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats the chicken perfectly.
• 3 cloves garlic (grated) – Garlic adds aromatic flavor, enriching the dish’s profile.
• 1 (1-inch) ginger knob (grated) – Ginger offers warmth and a unique zing that enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces) – The star of the dish, chicken takes on all the wonderful flavors.

The Method for Crockpot Orange Chicken

Cooking Crockpot Orange Chicken is a straightforward and enjoyable process. You’ll find that once you get the hang of it, you can prepare this meal in no time. Let’s walk through the steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort.

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced onion, orange zest, sriracha, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Ensure that everything is well incorporated and forms a smooth mixture.
2. Next, pour the vibrant sauce into your slow cooker. The wonderful aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and at this point, you can’t help but feel excited about the dish you’re creating.
3. Then, add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker, making sure they are all coated in that luscious orange sauce. Stir gently to distribute the sauce evenly. The key here is to ensure that every piece of chicken is enveloped in flavor.
4. Close the lid of the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for three to four hours or LOW for six to eight hours. If you’re short on time, the HIGH setting will work wonders; just make sure to check the chicken for doneness as you approach the end of the cooking time.
5. As the chicken cooks, the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a mouthwatering sauce. The chicken will become tender and juicy, absorbing the sweet and tangy essence of the orange.
6. Once cooking is complete, take the lid off and give the chicken a gentle stir. If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl, mix until smooth, and then stir it into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on HIGH.
7. While waiting, prepare your serving dishes. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a medley of vegetables, so feel free to set those up.
8. Once done, plate the Crockpot Orange Chicken and garnish with chopped green onion and extra orange zest for a pop of color and added freshness.
9. Finally, serve the chicken warm over rice or alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy the delightful and comforting meal you’ve just created!

Helpful Hints

Cooking is as much about technique as it is about creativity. Here are some helpful hints to get the most out of your Crockpot Orange Chicken experience.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready.
• Pairing: This dish goes well with fluffy jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors.
• Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a vibrant twist.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the Crockpot Orange Chicken with steamed broccoli or stir-fried bok choy for a complete meal.

Serve This Crockpot Orange Chicken With

When it comes to serving Crockpot Orange Chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Steamed Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to absorb the delicious sauce.
• Vegetable Medley: A mix of steamed broccoli, carrots, and snap peas adds freshness and color.
• Salad: Pair with a light salad to balance the sweetness of the dish.
• Wraps: Use the chicken in wraps with lettuce and cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
• Side Dishes: Complement with garlic bread or a creamy coleslaw for a satisfying meal.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

FAQ

Conclusion

Crockpot Orange Chicken is a dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, creating a delightful experience at every meal. I encourage you to try making this comforting dish in your own kitchen. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also creates wonderful memories around the dinner table with family and friends.

Crockpot Orange Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Crockpot Orange Chicken combines sweet and tangy flavors for an easy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken slow-cooked in a vibrant orange sauce will have you craving more. Make it tonight for a meal that delights everyone!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup orange juice from 3-4 oranges
• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons minced onion
• 2 tablespoons orange zest from 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 cloves garlic grated
• 1 1-inch ginger knob grated
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced onion, orange zest, sriracha, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Ensure that everything is well incorporated and forms a smooth mixture.
2. Next, pour the vibrant sauce into your slow cooker. The wonderful aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and at this point, you can't help but feel excited about the dish you’re creating.
3. Then, add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker, making sure they are all coated in that luscious orange sauce. Stir gently to distribute the sauce evenly. The key here is to ensure that every piece of chicken is enveloped in flavor.
4. Close the lid of the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for three to four hours or LOW for six to eight hours. If you’re short on time, the HIGH setting will work wonders; just make sure to check the chicken for doneness as you approach the end of the cooking time.
5. As the chicken cooks, the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a mouthwatering sauce. The chicken will become tender and juicy, absorbing the sweet and tangy essence of the orange.
6. Once cooking is complete, take the lid off and give the chicken a gentle stir. If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. Combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl, mix until smooth, and then stir it into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on HIGH.
7. While waiting, prepare your serving dishes. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a medley of vegetables, so feel free to set those up.
8. Once done, plate the Crockpot Orange Chicken and garnish with chopped green onion and extra orange zest for a pop of color and added freshness.
9. Finally, serve the chicken warm over rice or alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy the delightful and comforting meal you’ve just created!

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready.
• Tip 3: This dish goes well with fluffy jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad to balance the flavors.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a vibrant twist.
• Tip 5: Serve the Crockpot Orange Chicken with steamed broccoli or stir-fried bok choy for a complete meal.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.