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Homemade Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe photo

Crockpot Orange Chicken

This Crockpot Orange Chicken is a flavor-packed delight! Enjoy tender chicken in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed from about 3-4 oranges for the best flavor)
  • ¼ cup rice vinegar (this adds a nice tang)
  • ½ cup brown sugar (for sweetness and caramelization)
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (to enhance the umami flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons minced onion (adds depth and flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest (from 1 orange for that zesty kick)
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (for a touch of heat)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (to help thicken the sauce)
  • 3 cloves garlic (grated for a robust flavor)
  • 1 inch ginger (1-inch knob, grated for warmth and spice)
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater
  • Cutting Board and Knife
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced onion, orange zest, sriracha, cornstarch, grated garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until well combined.
  2. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
  3. Place the chicken pieces in the crockpot and pour the prepared sauce over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the sauce.
  4. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it on low, the more tender the chicken will be.
  5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, remove the lid and let it cook uncovered. This will allow the sauce to reduce and thicken.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, serve it over rice or noodles. Drizzle some of the sauce on top and garnish with additional orange zest or green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
  • For added nutrition, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli halfway through the cooking time.
  • This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.