slow cooker orange chicken recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best slow cooker orange chicken recipe

I love this slow cooker orange chicken recipe because it makes dinner so easy. My kids go crazy for it, and I love that I can just throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning and have a delicious meal ready by evening. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have a lot of time. The orange flavor is bright and tangy, and the chicken comes out so tender. It is healthier than takeout because you control the ingredients, and it is a great way to get the family to eat a home-cooked meal without any fuss.

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

4.6 from 1008 votes

This slow cooker orange chicken is a simple and flavorful weeknight dinner. The chicken is cooked low and slow in a sweet and tangy orange sauce until it is fall apart tender.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 tablespoon orange zest

👨‍🍳Directions

1Cut chicken thighs into bite sized pieces. Toss with cornstarch in a bowl until evenly coated.
2Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium high heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches for 2-3 minutes per side. Do not cook through.
3Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
4In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and orange zest. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
5Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
6Serve the orange chicken over rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Small bowl
Whisk
Frying pan
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 140mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also use chicken breast, but reduce the cooking time to avoid drying it out.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Works

This slow cooker orange chicken is always a good idea for any occasion because it is so easy and delicious. It works perfectly for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, and everyone always asks for the recipe.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breast. However, chicken breast cooks faster and can dry out more easily. Reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, and check for doneness early.

2. How can I make this orange chicken gluten free?

To make this recipe gluten free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Also make sure your cornstarch is labeled gluten free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten free.

3. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely. You can add broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds nutrition and color to the dish.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop. The sauce may thicken when chilled.

5. Can I freeze this orange chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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