When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? Is it a warm bowl of soup on a cold day or perhaps a plate of cheesy pasta that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? If your taste buds just perked up at the thought of sweet and tangy flavors dancing together, then allow me to introduce you to Crockpot Orange Chicken. It’s like a culinary hug from grandma, wrapped in the zestiness of fresh oranges that transports you straight to that magical place where cravings meet satisfaction.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken
- How to Make Crockpot Orange Chicken
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What is Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- How long does it take to cook Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- What can I serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?
- Conclusion for Crockpot Orange Chicken :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: you’re at home, your favorite cozy pants are on, and the tantalizing aroma of orange chicken wafts through the air. You catch a whiff and suddenly find yourself daydreaming about sunny days and happy memories. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or a bustling weekday evening, this dish transforms any moment into a mini celebration. Trust me, once you whip up this delightful recipe, you’ll want to serve it at every gathering—just be prepared for your friends asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means anyone can become a kitchen hero without breaking a sweat.
- The flavor profile is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Visually, it’s a feast for the eyes with its vibrant orange sauce and tender chicken pieces.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even in burritos!
Ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These juicy thighs hold up beautifully in the slow cooker and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Fresh Oranges: Use juicy oranges for zesting and juicing; they’ll give your sauce that fresh kick that bottled juice just can’t match.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things balanced and flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
- Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and depth to the sauce while perfectly counterbalancing the tanginess of the oranges.
For the Sauce:
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves pack an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced garlic if you can—it just isn’t worth it!
- Ginger Root: Grate some fresh ginger into your sauce for an added layer of warmth and spice.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Orange Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. If you’re feeling fancy, give them a quick seasoning with salt and pepper—this will help kickstart those flavor layers.
Step 2: Make Your Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed orange juice (about two large oranges), zested skin from one orange, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic cloves, and grated ginger. Stir until everything is well mixed; your kitchen should now smell like heaven!
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce in Slow Cooker
Place your chicken pieces into the crockpot and pour that glorious orange sauce over them. Give it a gentle stir—think of it as giving your chicken a comforting bath.
Step 4: Set It and Forget It
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for three hours. Go do something relaxing—like binge-watching your favorite show—while it does all the hard work!
Step 5: Thicken if Desired
If you prefer a thicker sauce (and who wouldn’t?), mix equal parts cornstarch and water in a small bowl. About thirty minutes before serving time, add this mixture into the crockpot while stirring gently.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Once done cooking, take out those heavenly morsels of orange chicken using tongs or a slotted spoon. Serve them over fluffy rice or noodles with some steamed veggies for an extra dose of nutrients (and color). Transfer to plates and drizzle with leftover sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! Your very own Crockpot Orange Chicken that’s sure to impress not only your taste buds but also anyone lucky enough to share in this meal with you! Enjoy each succulent bite as if it were created just for you—and trust me; it kind of was!
You Must Know
- Crockpot Orange Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl.
- With its sweet and tangy flavors, this recipe makes meal prep effortless.
- The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will have your family asking for seconds, or maybe even thirds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken for extra flavor. While it sizzles, prepare your orange sauce to infuse those zesty notes. Finally, let everything simmer together in the crockpot for tender, juicy magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous. Spice things up with some chili flakes or add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to boost nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always brown your chicken before cooking in the crockpot to enhance flavor.
- Use fresh orange juice for a brighter taste that bottled juice just can’t match.
- Don’t overfill your crockpot; leave space for steam to escape and ensure even cooking.
Sometimes I whip up Crockpot Orange Chicken when I’m feeling nostalgic about family dinners. One time, my cousin claimed he could eat it every day for a week—challenge accepted!
FAQs :
What is Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Crockpot Orange Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and juicy. This dish typically features ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and orange juice, creating a delightful blend that pairs well with rice or vegetables. another slow cooker chicken dish It’s an ideal meal for busy weekdays since you can set it and forget it until dinner time.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Orange Chicken?
The cooking time for Crockpot Orange Chicken varies depending on the setting of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes about 4 to 6 hours on the low setting and around 2 to 3 hours on high. It’s essential to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The longer cooking time allows for more intense flavors and ensures the chicken becomes perfectly tender.
Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
While it is possible to use frozen chicken in your Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe, it’s not recommended due to food safety concerns. Cooking frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking and may not allow the meat to reach safe temperatures quickly enough. For best results, always thaw your chicken in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the dish’s flavor.
What can I serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Crockpot Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Popular options include steamed white rice or brown rice, which absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful plate. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh salad topped with sesame dressing complements this dish nicely.
Conclusion for Crockpot Orange Chicken :
Crockpot Orange Chicken is an easy-to-make dish that packs a punch of flavor without demanding too much time in the kitchen. With its vibrant sauce and tender chicken pieces, it serves as a perfect weeknight meal option. Whether you choose to enjoy it over rice or with fresh vegetables, this recipe is sure to impress your family or guests. elevate your meals with rice chicken and rice combination Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe in your slow cooker; you’ll appreciate how effortlessly delicious home-cooked meals can be!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Crockpot Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Crockpot Orange Chicken is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a bright and zesty orange sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow-cooked meal creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home. Serve it over rice or noodles for a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 large fresh oranges (juiced and zested)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
Instructions
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Place chicken in the crockpot and pour the orange sauce over it; stir gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- For a thicker sauce, mix equal parts cornstarch and water; add to the crockpot 30 minutes before serving while stirring gently.
- Serve over rice or noodles, drizzling with additional sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
