Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

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This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is a simple yet delicious recipe, perfect for those busy days when you still want a homemade meal packed with flavor.

The combination of tangy orange marmalade, savory soy sauce, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes makes this a meal the whole family will love.

Set it and forget it, and by dinner time, you’ll have a tender and flavorful chicken dish ready to enjoy!

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken breasts/tenders: Provides a lean protein base that absorbs the flavors beautifully while becoming tender in the slow cooker.
• Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken pieces, creating a light crispness when sautéed before slow cooking.
• Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken, locking in flavor and moisture.
• Orange marmalade: Brings a sweet, citrusy flavor that complements the savory elements.
• Soy sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor while keeping the dish from being too salty.
• Vinegar: Offers a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the marmalade.
• Sesame oil: Infuses a rich, nutty aroma and flavor.
• Ground ginger: Provides warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: A staple aromatic that adds depth to the dish.
• Red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat.
• Sesame seeds: Used for garnish, they add texture and a subtle crunch.
• Scallions: Brighten the dish and add a fresh, oniony bite when used as a garnish.

Servings and Yield

This recipe serves 6 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Estimated preparation time: 10 minutes
• Estimated cooking time: 3-4 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low

How to Make Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

1. Prepare the chicken: Toss the bite-size chicken pieces in cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the coated chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes, just until they are golden brown on the outside (they don’t need to be cooked through).
3. Make the sauce: In a bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
4. Add to slow cooker: Place the browned chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are covered.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve: Once the chicken is done, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve over rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.

Tips and Notes

• Sautéing the chicken first: This step is optional but helps the chicken hold its shape and adds extra flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the orange marmalade to 1 cup.
• Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like more heat in your orange chicken.

What to Serve with Orange Chicken

• Cilantro Rice: The fresh, herby flavor of cilantro rice perfectly complements the sweet and tangy orange chicken.
• Potato Romanoff: Creamy and cheesy, this side adds a comforting touch that pairs well with the savory sauce.
• Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower: Roasted veggies provide a crispy, nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• Stir-Fry Green Beans: Crisp, savory green beans add a fresh contrast to the rich, citrusy chicken.

These sides make your meal more balanced and flavorful!

This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

The orange marmalade gives the chicken a sweet and tangy glaze, while the soy sauce and garlic bring in savory notes. It’s a no-fuss, delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Try it out and let us know how it turns out!

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