Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy ditching the takeaway tonight? You know, sometimes you just crave that sticky, sweet orange chicken goodness. This crockpot orange chicken recipe is a game changer. Honestly, it's bursting with flavor.

Brief Overview

Chinese orange chicken is a classic for a reason. it's originated in north america and then spread around the world.

This version is super easy. it's easy orange chicken , made simple in your slow cooker. it takes about 15 minutes of prep.

Then, 3- 8 hours in the crockpot, and serves about 6. boom .

Main Benefits

It’s a family friendly winner. plus, you control the ingredients. making it healthier than takeout. this sticky orange chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you're knackered.

The best bit? it's dead simple.

Okay, right then, let's get this sorted. Now, why should you bother with another chicken recipe? Because this one's different.

This crock pot orange chicken is all about convenience without sacrificing flavour. plus, it's budget friendly. takeaway prices are bonkers these days.

This tastes just as good, if not better. we also have included the orange chicken recipe naturally.

Seriously, this recipe is a breeze. It all begins with tender chicken thighs. I use thighs 'cause they stay juicy in the slow cooker. Nobody wants dry chicken, yeah? Right then .

Now, for the sauce. it's a zingy mix of orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a few other bits.

Gives it that classic chinese orange chicken recipes easy flavour. you'll have the neighbours wondering what smells so good!

We are including the Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe naturally. Don't worry, the ingredients list is pretty simple.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce, reduced sodium
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
• Sliced green onions (optional garnish)

Let's move into more details in next section.

Alright, right then, let's get this sorted. ready to dive into the heart of the crockpot orange chicken magic? it all starts with the right bits and bobs.

Trust me, getting this sorted upfront saves a world of hassle later. you know?

Ingredients & Equipment: The Starting Line

Main Ingredients: Chicken & Orange Goodness

• Chicken Thighs: 1 kg (or 2.2 lbs ) boneless, skinless, cut into 2.5 cm (or 1 inch ) pieces. Honestly, chicken thighs are where it's at. They stay juicy in the slow cooker. None of that dry, stringy business.
• Flour: 1/4 cup ( 30g ) all-purpose. This helps the sauce cling nicely.
• Salt & Pepper: 1 teaspoon ( 5g ) salt, 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5g ) black pepper. Standard seasoning, nothing fancy.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ). For that optional, but highly recommended browning stage.
• Orange Juice: 1 cup ( 240ml ). Fresh is best. I used shop bought once, and it just didn't sing the same way.
• Soy Sauce: 1/2 cup ( 120ml ), reduced sodium. Keeps it from being too salty.
• Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup ( 100g ), packed. Adds sweetness and that lovely sticky texture.
• Rice Vinegar: 1/4 cup ( 60ml ). Gives it that signature tang.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons ( 40g ). Adds a touch of floral sweetness.
• Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ). A little goes a long way for that authentic flavour.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced ( approx. 6g ). Because everything's better with garlic, innit?
• Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon ( 2.5g ). Warm and fragrant.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon ( 1.25g ) (optional). For a cheeky little kick!
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons ( 15g ).
• Cold Water: 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ). To make the slurry that thickens the sauce.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Bombs

Don't underestimate the power of soy sauce , sesame oil , and ginger. these are the backbone of that chinese takeout recipes at home flavour.

If you're feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of five spice powder can add a real depth. if you are looking for similar sticky orange chicken try adding a dash of chili garlic sauce.

For a milder flavour use tamari or coconut aminos.

Equipment Needed: No Fancy Gimmicks

• Crockpot : You’ll need a 6-quart (5.7 liter) slow cooker for this orange chicken crock pot recipe.
• Large Bowl: For tossing the chicken in flour. A mixing bowl will do if you don't have a large one.
• Whisk: For combining the sauce ingredients smoothly. A fork will do in a pinch.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cornstarch slurry.

Considering this easy orange chicken recipe and these simple ingredients, this will become one of your staple family friendly chicken dinner recipes .

The recipe for crock pot orange chicken recipe is designed for easy cooking! the secret is to start with quality ingredients.

So, there you have it. no crazy gadgets needed to make delicious slow cooker orange chicken recipe

Okay, right then, let's get this sorted!

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: Sticky, Sweet & Seriously Easy!

Oh my gosh, you guys, i have to tell you about this orange chicken crock pot recipe! honestly, it's a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you're craving chinese takeout recipes at home but just don't have the energy.

This is a proper set-it-and-forget-it meal. who doesn’t want an easy orange chicken dinner?

Prep Steps

Essential mise en place is key. chop that chicken, measure out your ingredients, and mince the garlic. it'll save you a heap of time later.

The chicken will take about 15 minutes to prepare.

Time saving tip? Get the sauce ingredients all measured and ready to go in one bowl. That way, you just dump it all in. Easy peasy.

Safety Reminder: Remember to wash your hands after handling raw chicken. And make sure that chicken is cooked to 74° C/ 165° F to avoid any nasties.

step-by-step Process for Crock Pot Orange Chicken Recipe

1. Prepare the Chicken: Toss 1 kg of chicken pieces with 1/4 cup flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Coat it evenly.
2. Brown the Chicken (Optional): Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Brown chicken in batches till golden. It adds a depth of flavour to the Crockpot Chicken Thigh Recipes !
3. Make the Orange Sauce: Whisk together 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 2 minced cloves garlic, 1 tsp ground ginger, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes.
4. Combine and Cook: Place chicken in slow cooker. Pour sauce over. Cook on LOW for 6- 8 hours or HIGH for 3- 4 hours.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Pour into slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 15- 30 minutes. It will thicken to Sticky Orange Chicken .
6. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice.

Pro Tips for a Family Friendly Chicken Dinner Recipes

Browning the chicken really elevates the flavour, but if you're short on time, you can skip it. I promise it will be great either way!

Common Mistake? Overcooking the chicken. Keep an eye on it and check that temperature! Also don't add too much chicken, it will water down the sauce.

make-ahead option? Absolutely! You can prep the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

Honestly, this orange chicken recipe is such a winner. it's so simple, tastes amazing, and the whole family loves it.

Give it a whirl! you wont be disappointed with these chinese orange chicken recipes easy .

Alright, right then , let's get this sorted with some extra recipe notes. Trust me, these little nuggets of info will take your crockpot orange chicken from "meh" to "OMG!"

Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Orange Chicken Game

This ain't just chuck-it-in-the-pot cooking, though that's mostly true! We're talking about easy orange chicken with serious flavour, yeah?

Serving It Up: Plating and Presentation

Okay, right then , listen up! forget that sad, gloopy takeout container look. serve your sticky orange chicken over fluffy rice.

White or brown works. garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color. steamed broccoli or a vibrant asian slaw are brilliant on the side.

It's like bringing the restaurant home ! for drinks, try a crisp lager or ice tea.

Storing Like a Pro: Saving Your Leftovers

Got leftovers? lucky you! refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. for longer storage, freezing is your friend.

Portion it out into freezer bags or containers. it'll keep for up to 2 months. to reheat , thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently in a saucepan or microwave until heated through.

Honestly, it tastes just as good the next day!

Mix It Up: Variations for Every Taste

Fancy a little twist? try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the orange chicken recipe for a spicy kick.

Want to make it healthier? swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup. or use tamari instead of soy sauce for the gluten-free option.

How about throwing in some pineapple chunks for a tropical crock pot orange chicken recipe vibe? okay, right then , it's your easy orange chicken , your rules! if you like a slow cooker orange chicken recipe , try using chicken breast.

Nutrition 101: Goodness in Every Bite

So, what's the deal with this chinese orange chicken recipes easy dish from a nutrition point of view? one serving clocks in around 450-550 calories.

You're getting a good dose of protein (35-45g), some fat (15-25g), and carbohydrates (30-40g). the orange chicken crock pot is good sources of protein, but you know, watch that sugar intake.

But hey, a little treat never hurt anyone, right? plus, you can make it even healthier by using lean chicken and less sugar.

This one is definitely a family friendly chicken dinner recipes winner!

Okay, right then , there you have it! All the secrets to nailing this Crockpot Chicken Thigh Recipes winner. Get in the kitchen and whip up some magic!