Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe for Dinner

The scent of sweet and tangy orange chicken wafting through your kitchen can make even the grumpiest of cats perk up. Picture this: succulent pieces of chicken simmering away in a luscious marinade that dances between citrusy goodness and savory delight. You can almost hear the taste buds singing, right? That's the magic of Crockpot Orange Chicken, a dish that transforms dinner into a culinary celebration, perfect for those cozy nights or when you want to impress friends without breaking a sweat. For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.

Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this delightful dish. I was juggling work, kids, and my questionable ability to multitask—let’s just say my cooking skills were on par with a microwave. But when I stumbled upon this recipe, it was like finding an oasis in the desert of takeout fatigue. crockpot cheesy potatoes With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Crockpot Orange Chicken quickly became a family favorite. Trust me; your taste buds are about to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; they absorb flavors wonderfully and cook evenly.
• Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves—fresh garlic will elevate the dish's aroma and taste.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to control saltiness while keeping that umami flavor intact.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice adds brightness; store-bought works too if you’re in a pinch.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken while cooking.
• Cornstarch: A little bit helps thicken the sauce as it cooks, giving it that perfect glaze.

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 Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping them as needed. You'll want everything ready so you can simply toss them into your slow cooker without losing precious time.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and cornstarch until well combined. This aromatic mixture is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker

Lay the boneless chicken breasts flat at the bottom of your slow cooker. No need to be fancy here; just ensure they are evenly spaced out to cook properly.

Step 4: Pour on the Sauce

Slowly pour your sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is coated in that glorious glaze. It’s like giving them a warm hug before they go on their delicious adventure.

Step 5: Set Your Crockpot

Cover and set your crockpot on low for about 6-7 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked through, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks or serve whole! Drizzle some extra sauce over your creation for an added burst of flavor before serving over rice or with steamed veggies.

So there you have it—Crockpot Orange Chicken that's not only simple but delivers big on taste! Your kitchen will smell divine as it cooks away while you kick back with your favorite show (or whatever keeps those pesky kids entertained). Bon appétit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping the chicken; trim any excess fat, then season it well. Sear the chicken in a skillet for that golden crust before placing it in the crockpot. While the chicken cooks slowly, whip up some rice or veggies to serve alongside this zesty dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Crockpot Orange Chicken! Swap out chicken thighs for breasts, add some diced bell peppers for crunch, or toss in fresh ginger for an extra zing. You could even try using honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop until heated through, ensuring you don’t lose that scrumptious flavor.

Sometimes I think my Crockpot Orange Chicken should be given its own fan club. The first time I served it at a family gathering, my cousin declared it "life-changing." Who knew dinner could spark such enthusiasm?

FAQs :

What is Crockpot Orange Chicken?

Crockpot Orange Chicken is a delicious, slow-cooked dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This recipe uses simple ingredients like chicken breasts, orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. honey glazed salmon The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables.

How do I make Crockpot Orange Chicken healthier?

To make Crockpot Orange Chicken healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content. You can also substitute honey with a natural sweetener or use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium levels. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli not only boosts nutritional value but also enhances the dish’s flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Orange Chicken?

Using frozen chicken in your Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe is generally not recommended. Cooking frozen chicken in a slow cooker can lead to unsafe temperatures, making it difficult for the meat to reach a safe internal temperature quickly. slow cooker chicken and broccoli For the best results, thaw your chicken before adding it to the crockpot to ensure even cooking and safety.

What should I serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?

Crockpot Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a healthy option. You can also add stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the dish. Noodles or quinoa are great alternatives if you're looking for something different.

Conclusion for Crockpot Orange Chicken :

Crockpot Orange Chicken is an easy and flavorful meal that fits perfectly into any busy schedule. With its sweet and tangy sauce and tender chicken, it's sure to please everyone at the table. By using simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a delightful dish without much effort. comforting chicken noodle soup Whether you serve it over rice or with vegetables, this recipe offers versatility and satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy creating this comforting meal that brings joy to any dinner!

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Crockpot Orange Chicken

Print Recipe

Crockpot Orange Chicken brings a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors to your dinner table. This effortless dish features tender chicken simmered in a vibrant orange sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. Serve over rice or with steamed veggies for a complete meal that will impress everyone!

• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. Gather and chop all ingredients.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and cornstarch until well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Once cooked through, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks or serve whole.

• Author: Selena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For added texture, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or fresh ginger into the recipe. - If you prefer a sweeter dish, substitute honey for brown sugar. - Serve with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal.