The sweet and tangy aroma of Crockpot Orange Chicken wafts through the air, promising a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Imagine tender pieces of chicken swimming in a luscious orange sauce that’s bursting with zest and sweetness; it’s like a party for your mouth. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
I remember the first time I made Crockpot Orange Chicken; my kitchen turned into a citrus-scented sanctuary, and I felt like a culinary wizard. My family couldn’t get enough of it! Whether you’re hosting a laid-back dinner or simply indulging in some self-care, this recipe has got your back, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last. street corn chicken recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Orange Chicken requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
- The bold flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its vibrant color makes it visually appealing on any table setting.
- You can serve it over rice or with veggies, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Ingredients for Crockpot Orange Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are ideal for slow cooking as they remain juicy and flavorful throughout the process.
- Fresh Oranges: Use zesty oranges for both juice and zest to elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to balance the saltiness without overpowering the dish.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a delicious caramelized sweetness that complements the tangy orange beautifully.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities.
For the Sauce:
- Ginger: Fresh ginger gives an extra kick of spice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of orange.
- Cornstarch: Use this to thicken your sauce at the end, giving it that perfect glossy texture.
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 zesting two fresh oranges and then squeeze their juice into a bowl. It’s like squeezing sunshine! Chop your garlic and ginger finely so they meld wonderfully into your sauce.
Step 2: Assemble Your Chicken
Place your boneless chicken thighs into the crockpot. Let them know they’re about to have a transformation into something magical!
Step 3: Mix Your Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, orange juice, garlic, ginger, and zest until combined. This concoction will make your taste buds sing!
Step 4: Pour Over Chicken
Pour your citrusy sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Give it a little stir if you’re feeling fancy; you want everything coated nicely.
Step 5: Set It & Forget It
Cover your crockpot and set it on low for about six hours or high for three hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show while this beauty cooks!
Step 6: Thicken The Sauce
Once cooked, remove the chicken and whisk cornstarch with some water until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the sauce and let it cook on high for an additional ten minutes until thickened.
Transfer to plates and drizzle generously with that glorious sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve alongside rice or steamed veggies to create a complete meal everyone will love!
So there you have it—your guide to creating mouthwatering Crockpot Orange Chicken that transforms ordinary dinners into extraordinary occasions! Enjoy every juicy bite!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot orange chicken recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it an easy weeknight dinner.
- With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Crockpot orange chicken, start by searing the chicken to lock in those juices. While the chicken cooks slowly in the crockpot, prepare your rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a fun twist. Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or lime, or add some crushed red pepper for an extra kick to suit your taste. grilled lemon chicken.
Storing & Reheating
To maintain quality, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Crockpot orange chicken, choose skinless chicken thighs for tenderness.
- Add cornstarch mixed with water at the end to thicken the sauce.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking to enhance flavors before serving.
It was a rainy Saturday when I first made this Crockpot orange chicken. My friends were skeptical at first until they tasted it—now it’s their go-to comfort food whenever they visit!
FAQs :
What is Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Crockpot Orange Chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This recipe allows the chicken to simmer in a crockpot, making it incredibly easy and convenient for busy weeknights. chicken and rice casserole The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, this meal is sure to be a hit with the whole family. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Making Crockpot Orange Chicken is simple and doesn’t take much time at all. You can prepare the ingredients in about 15 minutes, and then let the slow cooker do the rest of the work. Cooking on low typically takes around 6 to 8 hours, while cooking on high usually takes about 3 to 4 hours. slow cooker chicken and broccoli Regardless of your chosen method, you’ll end up with tender chicken bathed in a delightful orange sauce.
Can I customize my Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about Crockpot Orange Chicken is its versatility. You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, or even try using honey for a different flavor profile. Additionally, feel free to toss in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to increase nutrients and add color to your dish. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the taste according to your preferences.
What should I serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Crockpot Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Steamed rice is a classic option that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. Alternatively, you might enjoy serving it over quinoa for a healthier twist or alongside fried rice for extra flavor. Adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can also balance out the richness of the dish, making it a complete meal.
Conclusion for Crockpot Orange Chicken :
Crockpot Orange Chicken stands out as an easy yet flavorful meal ideal for any night of the week. With minimal preparation time and simple ingredients, this dish offers convenience without sacrificing taste. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or quinoa, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it according to your family’s preferences for an even more enjoyable experience. Enjoy your delicious homemade Crockpot Orange Chicken!
Crockpot Orange Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American/Asian
Description
Crockpot Orange Chicken is a flavorful dish that perfectly marries sweet and tangy notes in every bite. Tender boneless chicken thighs simmer in a luscious orange sauce, creating an easy weeknight meal that requires minimal effort. Ideal for busy families or impressing guests, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or steamed vegetables. Prepare to delight your taste buds with this hands-off cooking experience!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Zest and juice the oranges into a bowl. Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Place chicken thighs in the crockpot.
- In another bowl, mix together orange juice, zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until combined.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- After cooking, remove chicken and whisk cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir back into the sauce and cook on high for an additional 10 minutes to thicken.
- Serve over rice or steamed vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot. - Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different twist. - Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition.
