If you’re looking for a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor, let me introduce you to my easy slow cooker orange chicken! This recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture this: tender chicken thighs slowly cooking in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that fills your home with the most amazing aroma. Trust me, when I first tried this, my family couldn’t believe how simple it was to whip up such a flavorful meal! It’s like having your favorite takeout at home, but without the fuss. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—just set it and forget it! So grab your slow cooker and let’s make some magic happen!

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are my go-to for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. You can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs really soak up all that delicious sauce!
• 1 cup fresh orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that vibrant flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, store-bought works too. Just avoid the overly processed stuff!
• 1/2 cup soy sauce: This adds a nice depth of flavor and saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, you can easily swap in a gluten-free soy sauce.
• 1/4 cup honey: This gives the dish a subtle sweetness that balances out the tangy orange juice perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try maple syrup for a twist!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It adds that aromatic punch that makes the chicken irresistible.
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Fresh ginger gives a lovely warmth and zing. If you don’t have fresh, powdered ginger can work in a pinch—just use a little less!
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for thickening up the sauce at the end. It makes it nice and glossy!
• 2 tablespoons water: This helps to activate the cornstarch and create that smooth sauce consistency.
• Cooked rice: For serving! This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice or even brown rice for a healthier option.

How to Prepare Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Making my easy slow cooker orange chicken is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Trust me, it’s almost too easy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, grab your slow cooker and place the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs right in there. Make sure they’re spread out a bit for even cooking.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. This mixture is the magic sauce that makes the chicken so flavorful!
3. Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is well coated. Oh, it smells so good already!
4. Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and juicy, so don’t rush it!
5. After the cooking time, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. It’ll be super tender, so be gentle as you shred it with two forks.
6. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. This will help thicken up that beautiful sauce.
7. Add the cornstarch mixture back into the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce. Then, cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes to let it thicken up nicely.
8. Finally, serve the shredded chicken over your choice of cooked rice and drizzle that luscious sauce on top. Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you! No complex steps or cooking techniques needed.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of sweet orange juice, savory soy sauce, and a hint of honey creates a mouthwatering sauce that your taste buds will thank you for!
• Healthy and satisfying: With juicy chicken thighs and the option to serve over rice, this dish is a wholesome meal that’s perfect for the whole family.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together!
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or tweak the sauce to your liking for a dish that suits your palate perfectly.
• Perfect for busy nights: Set it in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go—no stress involved!

Tips for Success

Want to make sure your easy slow cooker orange chicken turns out absolutely perfect? Here are some of my favorite tips to help you achieve the best results!

• Use a good quality chicken: I highly recommend opting for organic or free-range chicken thighs if you can. The flavor is just that much better, and it makes a world of difference!
• Don’t skip the browning: If you have a bit of extra time, consider browning the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish!
• Adjust sweetness to your taste: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the honey a bit. You can always taste and adjust as needed before cooking!
• Mix in some veggies: For a more nutrient-packed meal, throw in some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking. They’ll add color and crunch!
• Serve with garnishes: A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top just before serving elevates the dish and adds a nice pop of flavor.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully!

With these tips, you’re well on your way to making an unforgettable meal that your family will rave about! Happy cooking!

Variations of Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit, I’ve got some fantastic variations for my easy slow cooker orange chicken that’ll keep your taste buds dancing! Trust me, the possibilities are endless!

• Add vegetables: Toss in some bite-sized broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking. They’ll add a beautiful crunch and a pop of color to your dish!
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce. It’s a delicious way to turn up the flavor!
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish even more! Try adding chopped cilantro or green onions right before serving for a fresh finish. A touch of basil or mint could also add a unique twist.
• Switch the citrus: Instead of just orange juice, mix in some lime or lemon juice for a citrus medley that brightens the whole dish. You could even use a combination for a more complex flavor!
• Experiment with marinades: Swap the soy sauce for a teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile. It’ll change the entire vibe of the dish while keeping it delicious!
• Fruit infusion: Add some pineapple chunks or mandarin oranges to the slow cooker for a sweet and tangy twist that complements the orange beautifully.

These variations are a great way to keep the recipe fresh and exciting! Feel free to get creative and make it your own—cooking should always be fun!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftovers from your delightful easy slow cooker orange chicken? You’re in luck because storing and reheating it is super simple! Here’s how to keep that deliciousness fresh for your next meal.

• Storing leftovers: Allow your orange chicken to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to keep all that flavorful sauce from escaping!
• Freezing: If you want to enjoy this tasty dish later, you can freeze it! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers so you know what you’re grabbing later!

Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options:

• Microwave: For a quick reheat, pop a serving in the microwave. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed through.
• Stovetop: If you have a bit more time, reheating on the stovetop is my favorite method! Just add the chicken and sauce to a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until it’s heated through and bubbling. This method helps keep the chicken juicy and the sauce nice and flavorful!

Whichever method you choose, you’ll be back to enjoying that sweet and tangy goodness in no time! Happy reheating!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for my easy slow cooker orange chicken. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any variations you decide to try!

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 80mg

These numbers give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with this delicious meal, and it’s always a great reminder that cooking at home can be healthier than takeout! Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious dish!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that breasts might cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 4-hour mark to ensure they don’t dry out.

Can I make this recipe in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop in a regular pot. Just simmer everything on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

What if I want to make it spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. It’ll give your easy slow cooker orange chicken a nice kick without overpowering the sweet and tangy flavors!

How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let your orange chicken cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll last for up to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months—just make sure to label your containers!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas is a fantastic way to make this dish even more nutritious. Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking to keep them vibrant and crunchy!

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken for a Flavorful Feast

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple recipe for slow cooker orange chicken.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Cooked rice, for serving

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Instructions

1. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove chicken and shred it.
6. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl.
7. Add the cornstarch mixture to the slow cooker and stir.
8. Cook on high for another 30 minutes to thicken sauce.
9. Serve chicken over rice with sauce.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Can substitute chicken breasts if preferred.
• Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for more nutrition.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: easy slow cooker orange chicken, slow cooker recipes, orange chicken