Description
Tangy, sweet, and savory, this slow-cooked orange chicken is a family-friendly meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Perfect for busy days or when you’re craving homemade comfort!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (or unsweetened bottled)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 tbsp orange marmalade (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening, optional)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. If desired, sear the chicken in a skillet with a little oil for 2–3 minutes per side to lock in flavor.
- Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, orange marmalade, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
- Layer in the slow cooker: Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce evenly over the top. Mix gently to coat the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Serve and garnish: Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or with a side of veggies. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest give the sauce a bright, natural citrus flavor that elevates the dish. Bottled juice works in a pinch but may lack the same freshness.
- Don’t Skip Thickening (Optional): If you prefer a sticky, glaze-like sauce, add the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes. This step ensures the sauce coats the chicken perfectly and enhances the dish’s presentation.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only make the dish visually appealing but also add a nutty crunch and fresh flavor that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours