This easy slow cooker orange chicken is a tasty meal that’s packed with flavor. Sweet orange sauce brings the chicken to life, making it a hit with everyone!
I love how simple this dish is—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Serve it over rice for a quick dinner that feels special! 🍊🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless thighs for more flavor and tenderness, but breasts work well too. If you want to make it lighter, you can use tofu or tempeh as a meat alternative.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it, store-bought is fine. You could also use pineapple juice for a different fruity taste.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce cuts down on salt but still adds great flavor. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using honey or maple syrup—just know it may slightly alter the taste.
Vegetable Oil: Browning the chicken first enhances the flavor, but you can skip this for a quicker preparation and save on the cleanup!
How Do I Thicken the Sauce Perfectly?
To get that nice thick sauce that clings to the chicken, you’ll need to make a cornstarch slurry. This step is key for an appealing texture.
- Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. This prevents clumps in your sauce.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker about 20 minutes before serving. This gives it enough time to thicken.
- Cook on high for 15-20 minutes more, and check the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water.
Perfecting the sauce consistency can really elevate your dish!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Thickening and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for browning the chicken, optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Orange slices for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Time Estimate:
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and will need 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high in the slow cooker. Don’t forget to add an extra 20 minutes towards the end to thicken the sauce. It’s well worth the wait for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Chicken (Optional):
If you’d like a bit more flavor, start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and lightly brown them for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step gives the chicken a nice texture but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In your slow cooker, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely.
3. Add the Chicken:
Add the browned (or raw) chicken pieces into the slow cooker. Stir them well to ensure they are fully coated in the delicious sauce.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and very tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker to thicken your sauce. Cover again and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
6. Serve:
Once the sauce is perfectly thickened, it’s time to dig in! Serve your orange chicken over a warm bed of cooked white rice. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and orange slices.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken! It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table! 🍊🍚
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs or breasts! Just ensure to cook on high for an extra 15-30 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through. For best results, it’s recommended to thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Can I Substitute the Brown Sugar?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary slightly, so adjust to taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of orange juice to refresh the flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you like some heat, you can increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha when mixing the sauce. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste preference!
