The moment I take a whiff of citrusy goodness, I’m transported to my favorite restaurant, where I used to indulge in takeout orange chicken far too often. But what if I told you that you could create that same delightful experience in your own kitchen, minus the unhealthy additives? Enter my Slow Cooker Orange Chicken – a simple, gluten-free recipe that’s not only healthier than traditional takeout but also a breeze to make.
Imagine the tender chicken, lovingly simmered to perfection in a luscious, sweet-and-tangy glaze, while you go about your day. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will adore, from picky kids to discerning adults. So dust off that slow cooker, and let’s dive into a dish that delivers all the comfort of home-cooked goodness without the hassle!
Why is Slow Cooker Orange Chicken so popular?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and tangy glaze transforms simple chicken into a vibrant dish that sings with flavor.
Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work, allowing you to focus on your day.
Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the taste of takeout without extra sugar or MSG, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: This recipe is loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Versatile Uses: Serve it over rice or with vegetable stir-fries for a complete meal. Don’t forget to check out my other easy slow cooker recipes for more delicious ideas!
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
• Oil – Use any neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil for sautéing.
• Cornstarch – Coats the chicken for a crispy texture when browned; swap with gluten-free flour if desired.
• Salt – Enhances the dish’s flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; feel free to use black or white pepper as a substitute.
For the Sauce
• Orange Marmalade – The sweet and tangy base of the sauce; can replace with homemade orange sauce or other fruit preserves.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Introduces umami flavor; substitute with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Balances sweetness with acidity; apple cider vinegar can work as a great alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty undertone; light sesame oil is a suitable substitute.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is essential for aromatic flavor.
• Ginger – Provides warmth; you can use ginger paste if fresh isn’t available.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Offers optional heat; adjust to your spice tolerance or omit for milder flavors.
For Garnishing
• Sesame Seeds – A perfect finishing touch to sprinkle before serving, adding extra crunch and flavor.
Craft your very own Slow Cooker Orange Chicken with these simple and wholesome ingredients, and savor delicious moments with your loved ones!
How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
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Combine Ingredients: In a large ziplock bag, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Shake gently until all the chicken is well-coated for an even texture.
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Brown the Chicken: Heat your neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in two batches, cooking until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step locks in the flavor!
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Sauté Garlic and Ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the chicken, cooking for an additional minute until the fragrant aroma fills the kitchen. This adds depth to the dish.
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Transfer to Slow Cooker: Carefully transfer the browned chicken, along with the garlic and ginger, into your slow cooker. Don’t leave any flavor behind!
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. This will be the delicious glaze that makes your chicken shine.
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Simmer in Skillet: Pour your sauce mixture into the still-hot skillet, scraping up all the tasty browned bits. Bring to a simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors, then pour it into the slow cooker.
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Coat the Chicken: Gently toss to coat the chicken pieces in the sauce. It’s going to smell incredible!
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Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken becomes wonderfully tender. Your patience will be rewarded!
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Thicken the Sauce: To achieve the perfect glaze, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with 1 tbsp of cooking liquid in a small bowl, then stir this mixture back into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken immediately, optionally garnished with sesame seeds for that extra flair and crunch. Bon appétit!
Optional: Top with fresh sliced green onions for added brightness and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Variations
Customize your meal with these delightful twists that add your personal touch!
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish that melts in your mouth.
- Fruit Preserves: Use apricot or peach preserves instead of orange marmalade to create a unique sweet-and-tangy experience.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, following the same prep steps for a plant-based feast.
- Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color; just be mindful of cooking time.
- Sweet Heat: Drizzle in some honey or maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness. Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
- Citrus Zest: Amp up the citrus flavor by adding zest from an orange or lime to your sauce for brightness.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in almond or peanut butter for a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the orange glaze.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil as a garnish for a fresh, aromatic finish that brightens every bite.
Feel free to explore these variations and make this Slow Cooker Orange Chicken truly yours!
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken fresh and ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chicken completely in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of water to maintain moisture while reheating.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Elevate your homemade feast with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures, perfect for every bite.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the orange glaze beautifully and complements the dish perfectly.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of crunchy vegetables adds texture, bringing a fresh element that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
- Cauliflower Fried Rice: For a low-carb alternative, this dish adds an interesting twist while still offering that irresistible fried rice flavor.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a light soy dressing, these noodles add a delightful chewiness that harmonizes with the chicken’s sweetness.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy appetizers offer a satisfying bite alongside the tender chicken, creating a delightful contrast.
- Mandarin Orange Salad: The bright and juicy segments add a refreshing zing that echoes the citrusy notes of the chicken.
- Chilled Green Tea: A soothing and refreshing beverage that complements the meal while helping cleanse the palate between bites.
- Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these sweet and chewy cookies provide a lovely, tropical finish to the meal after the savory flavors.
- Honey Ginger Lemonade: This sweet and tangy drink enhances the meal while providing a refreshing balance to the rich glaze.
- Pickled Cucumbers: Adding a vinegary kick, these crunchy bites serve as a palate cleanser, refreshing your taste buds with every bite.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
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Brown the Chicken: Ensure that you brown the chicken well before transferring it to the slow cooker for a richer flavor and better texture.
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Check the Time: Avoid overcooking by starting to check for doneness at the 2-hour mark; this keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
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Sauce Adjustments: For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of fresh orange juice to the sauce mixture while cooking.
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Thickening Tips: If the sauce appears too thin, boost thickness by combining cornstarch with cooking liquid as noted; this creates a luscious glaze.
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Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, feel free to add Sriracha or adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
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Storage Ease: Leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days; simply reheat for a quick meal!
Enjoy crafting your delicious Slow Cooker Orange Chicken, and let these expert tips guide you to perfection!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Orange Chicken preparations are ideal for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s flavorful when you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (mixing the orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and spices) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this will enhance the flavors even more. When it’s time to serve, simply brown the chicken, combine it in the slow cooker with the sauce, and let it cook low and slow. This way, you’ll enjoy a homemade meal that tastes just as delicious with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe oranges for my Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting oranges for your dish, look for ones that are bright in color, feel heavy for their size, and have a slight give when gently squeezed. Avoid any with hard spots or blemishes, as these may be past their prime. If using orange marmalade, pick a brand that has real fruit and minimal added sugars for the best flavor in your dish.
How should I store leftovers of my Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Very easy! Store your Slow Cooker Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the fridge to maintain its freshness. You can gently reheat it in the microwave or stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers!
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Orange Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What if my Slow Cooker Orange Chicken turns out too watery?
No worries! If you find your sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mix into the slow cooker about 5 minutes before serving. This will help thicken the sauce for that perfect glossy finish. Remember, it’s important to give it enough time to cook while making sure not to overcook the chicken!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Sure thing! This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos. However, be cautious if you have allergies to soy or sesame, as both ingredients are commonly used in this dish. Always double-check the labels if you’re using pre-made ingredients like marmalade or soy sauce to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same preparation steps. Make sure to press your tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking, which will help it absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce. This way, you’ll still experience the delightful sweetness and tang without the meat!
Delicious Slow Cooker Orange Chicken You Can Whip Up Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large ziplock bag, add the chicken pieces, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Shake gently until well-coated.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in batches, cooking until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the browned chicken, garlic, and ginger into the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a simmer for 1-2 minutes, then pour into the slow cooker.
- Gently toss to coat the chicken pieces in the sauce.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender.
- To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with 1 tbsp of cooking liquid, stir back into the slow cooker, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds.