The aroma of slow-cooked chicken enveloped in a tangy, sweet orange glaze is more than just enticing; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. Picture this: you come home after a long day, and the delicious scent of crockpot orange chicken greets you at the door, making you feel like the world’s best chef—without lifting a finger. This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating memories that linger long after the last bite.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my kitchen transformed into an aromatic wonderland. My friends arrived expecting pizza but were blown away by this vibrant chicken creation instead. Perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or simply treating yourself on a weeknight, this dish promises to deliver a flavor experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds—trust me!

Ingredients for crockpot orange chicken

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well, ensuring they’re juicy and tender when cooked.
• Fresh Garlic: Use about 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic to add depth and richness to the sauce.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled will do in a pinch for that sweet citrus flavor.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This helps balance flavors without overwhelming saltiness, making it suitable for everyone.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Either adds sweetness and helps create that irresistible glaze you’ll love.

For the Sauce:

• Ginger Powder: A teaspoon brings warmth and spice; feel free to add fresh ginger if you’re feeling ambitious!
• Cornstarch: This acts as a thickening agent for your sauce, giving it that glossy finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

this recipe

How to Make crockpot orange chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by placing your boneless chicken breasts into your crockpot. No need to chop them up yet; they’ll break apart beautifully as they cook.

Step 2: Mix Your Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine freshly squeezed orange juice, low-sodium soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, ginger powder, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth – like you’re trying to impress a culinary critic!

Step 3: Pour Over Chicken

Take your luscious sauce and pour it over the chicken in the crockpot. Give everything a little stir so that each piece gets coated in that gorgeous mixture.

Step 4: Set It Up

Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it on low for about six hours or high for three hours if you’re short on time. It’s like setting an alarm clock but with much tastier results!

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Once cooked through, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Stir everything together so those flavors meld together nicely.

Step 6: The Grand Finale

Transfer your beautiful crockpot orange chicken onto plates or serve directly from the pot! Pair it with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Enjoy the burst of flavor from each bite as you soak in compliments from family and friends alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those delicious juices, then prepare your sauce while the chicken cooks low and slow in the crockpot. This method ensures perfect texture and flavor every time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out orange juice for pineapple juice, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Toss in some veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

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

Sharing my first experience making crockpot orange chicken still brings a smile to my face. Friends raved about it at my last dinner party, turning me into the culinary hero of the night!

FAQs:

What is crockpot orange chicken?

Crockpot orange chicken is a delightful dish made by slow-cooking chicken pieces in a flavorful orange sauce. This recipe uses fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and various spices to create a sweet and tangy glaze. Cooking it in a crockpot allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the vibrant flavors of the sauce. It’s an easy and convenient way to prepare a delicious meal for family or guests.

Can I use other meats for this crockpot recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats such as beef, lamb, or turkey in your crockpot orange chicken recipe. Each meat brings its unique flavor profile and texture to the dish. For example, beef will provide a richer taste while turkey offers a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your chosen meat is thoroughly cooked and tender.

How do I thicken the sauce for crockpot orange chicken?

To thicken the sauce for your crockpot orange chicken, consider using cornstarch or plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar or pectin. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can add agar-agar according to package instructions for a plant-based thickening option that will keep your dish creamy without animal-derived ingredients.

What can 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 hearty meal. You could also complement it with stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option. Additionally, quinoa or cauliflower rice are great choices if you’re looking for healthier alternatives while still enjoying the delicious flavors of your orange chicken.

Conclusion for crockpot orange chicken:

Crockpot orange chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that combines tender meat with a sweet and tangy sauce. By using simple ingredients like fresh oranges and soy sauce, you can create a delightful meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Remember to experiment with different meats if desired and use thickening agents to achieve your preferred sauce consistency. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!

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Crockpot Orange Chicken

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

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Description

Crockpot orange chicken is a deliciously easy dish that transforms tender chicken into a flavorful meal enveloped in a sweet and tangy orange glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this hands-off recipe allows the rich aromas to fill your home while you relax. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, ginger powder, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and mix well before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: - For extra flavor, sear the chicken before placing it in the crockpot. - Swap orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist. - Adding vegetables such as bell peppers can enhance nutrition and color.