Name: Crockpot Orange Chicken – Sweet, Tangy Perfection Made Easy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders (Cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 tbsp Cornstarch (For coating chicken); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (For browning chicken); 1 cup Orange Marmalade (Sweet and tangy base); 1/4 cup Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce (Adds depth); 2 tbsp White Vinegar (Balances sweetness); 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (Infuses nutty richness); 1 tsp Ground Ginger (Adjust to taste); 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Enhances savory notes); 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust for heat); 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds (For crunch and visual appeal); 2 tbsp Chopped Scallions (For flavor and color)

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You won’t believe how such a simple dish can transform your weeknight dinners into something truly special! My Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen, balancing sweet and tangy flavors with tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth. This recipe shines not just for its taste but also for its effortless preparation—five minutes in the morning and you can forget about dinner until it’s time to enjoy! With this crockpot creation, not only do you save time, but you also serve up comfort food that the whole family will love. Ready to learn how to whip up this uncomplicated yet delightful meal? Let’s dive into the magic of slow cooking!

Why is Crockpot Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Effortless Prep: Just five minutes in the morning means less stress for busy families.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The sweet and tangy sauce is simply irresistible; it’ll become a dinner staple!
Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures every bite of chicken is soft and succulent, bursting with flavor.
Versatile Choices: Feel free to swap in other proteins or veggies for an exciting twist. You can even serve this with my delicious Sizzling Chicken Pepper or pair it with a nice Blt Chicken Salad for a complete spread!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, turning ordinary nights into exceptional dining experiences.

Crockpot Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders – The main protein choice that yields tender and juicy bites; breasts are more economical, while tenders give a softer texture.
For the Sauce
Cornstarch – Essential for creating a light crust on the chicken and ensuring it doesn’t become rubbery.
Olive Oil – Used for browning the chicken, adding flavor and texture before slow cooking.
Orange Marmalade – This sweet and tangy base is crucial for providing that signature flavor profile in this Crockpot Orange Chicken.
Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds depth without overwhelming saltiness, enhancing the overall taste.
White Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity, making the sauce well-rounded.
Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty richness that complements the Asian-inspired flavors of the dish.
Ground Ginger – Introduces a warm spice element; adjust to taste depending on your preference for ginger flavor.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – A must-have for enhancing the savory notes of the sauce.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp) – Provides a gentle heat; feel free to adjust or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
For Garnish
Sesame Seeds – Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal when sprinkled on top before serving.
Chopped Scallions – Freshly chopped, they enhance flavor and bring a pop of color to the dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Then, thoroughly coat each piece in cornstarch to ensure a light crust that keeps the chicken tender. Set aside while you prepare to brown the chicken, giving it a nice, flaky texture once cooked.

Step 2: Brown Chicken
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Lightly brown them for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them golden on the outside but not cooked through, as they will finish cooking in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce
While the chicken is browning, combine 1 cup of orange marmalade, 1/4 cup of reduced-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine in Slow Cooker
Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker, ensuring to scrape any fond from the skillet for added flavor. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, then gently stir to coat every piece well. This step ensures the chicken is infused with that delicious sweet and tangy flavor as it cooks.

Step 5: Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and cover it, allowing the Crockpot Orange Chicken to cook for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. It’s essential to stir halfway through the cooking time to prevent the chicken from sticking and to enhance the overall flavor by redistributing the sauce.

Step 6: Serve
When the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to serve! Garnish your Crockpot Orange Chicken with additional sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a pop of color and crunch. Pair it with fluffy rice or vibrant steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to please.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Orange Chicken

Perfect Coating: Always coat chicken pieces in cornstarch before browning. This prevents them from becoming rubbery during cooking and enhances texture.
Mind the Browning: Lightly brown your chicken without cooking it all the way through. This step locks in flavors and ensures tender bites in your crockpot orange chicken.
Slow Cooking Magic: Stick to low heat for a longer cook time. High heat can lead to stringy chicken, diminishing that desirable tenderness.
Thicken if Needed: If your sauce appears too thin at the end of cooking, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in. This will help you achieve that luscious, sticky consistency.
Adjustment Flexibility: Feel free to adjust spice levels. If you’re averse to heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder flavor profile.

Storage Tips for Crockpot Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors develop even more as it sits, making each bite deliciously comforting!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth for that perfect saucy texture.
Meal Prep: This crockpot orange chicken is ideal for meal prep, offering satisfying, quick meals throughout the week—just reheat and serve over rice or veggies!

What to Serve with Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken

Pair your mouthwatering creation with these delightful sides to create a comforting family meal that wraps everyone in warmth.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice soaks up the sweet and tangy sauce, making every bite deliciously satisfying. The soft texture complements the tender chicken perfectly.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright, fresh, and slightly crunchy, steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green contrast that balances the dish’s richness. Plus, it’s a simple way to sneak in some healthy greens!
Sesame Noodles: These tender noodles dressed in a light sesame oil and soy sauce blend provide a wonderful flavor pairing that melds beautifully with the orange chicken. Enjoying them side by side is a match made in culinary heaven.
Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and herbs dressed in a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp crunch, enhancing the dish’s overall texture and taste. It’s an energetic companion on the plate!
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic and a splash of soy sauce bring a savory note that pairs beautifully while adding color and nutrients.
Coconut Milk Rice Pudding: For a sweet finish, consider this creamy dessert. Its subtle coconut flavor and sweet notes offer a lovely end to the meal, soothing any palate delightfully.

Each of these pairings enhances the flavors of your Crockpot Orange Chicken while introducing a variety of textures and tastes that refresh the dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Orange Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken and coat it in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (without the chicken) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, ensuring flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the browned chicken and sauce in the slow cooker as instructed, and let it work its magic. By prepping ahead, you save valuable time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort during your busy weeknights!

Crockpot Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by trying out these exciting variations!

Pork Option: Swap chicken for boneless pork chops or tenderloin, resulting in a deliciously rich alternative.
Tofu Delight: For a plant-based version, replace chicken with firm tofu, marinating it in the sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Veggie Loaded: Toss in a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.
Zingy Twist: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or zest along with the marmalade to brighten the flavors even more.
Heat Lover’s Dream: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or incorporate fresh chopped chili for an extra spicy kick in every bite.
Sweet Adjustments: Use less orange marmalade or add a bit of honey for a sweeter sauce if desired—make it just right for your family!
Cyborg Chicken: Infuse with flavors of ginger and garlic by marinating the chicken overnight in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic for deeper taste.
Feast with Friends: Serve your crockpot orange chicken alongside fluffy jasmine rice or my flavorful Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for a delicious and hearty spread that your guests will adore!

Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, you can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders. Breasts are more budget-friendly, while tenders yield an incredibly tender texture. Ensure they are fresh and firm, without any discoloration or dark spots for optimal flavor.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Crockpot Orange Chicken?
After you enjoy your delicious meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve as they meld! If you’d like to keep leftovers longer, you can freeze the chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely first. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe bags, squeezing out the air before sealing them tightly. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain that enjoyable saucy texture.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If the sauce ends up thinner than you’d like, don’t worry—it can easily be thickened! Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the crockpot about 15-30 minutes before serving. Stir well and let it cook covered, allowing the sauce to thicken up nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for allergies or dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re concerned about allergies, be aware that this recipe contains soy (from the soy sauce) and sesame (from the sesame oil and seeds). To make it gluten-free, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. For a nut-free option, simply omit the sesame oil and seeds, or replace them with a splash of extra olive oil for flavor.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
To tailor the sweetness to your taste, you can easily adjust the amount of orange marmalade. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, use about half a cup instead of a full cup and add an extra splash of vinegar to maintain the tanginess. Alternatively, if you enjoy it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more marmalade until it hits the sweet spot for you!