Name: Crockpot Orange Chicken: Effortless Flavor for Busy Nights
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders (Cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup Orange Marmalade (Or substitute with orange juice concentrate); 1/2 cup Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce (Adjust based on salt preference); 1/4 cup White Vinegar (Rice vinegar is an alternative); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Can be omitted if unavailable); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Fresh ginger can be substituted); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust according to taste); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Vital for a non-rubbery texture); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Used for browning the chicken); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (Or substitute with chopped nuts)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sweet citrus wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but smile at the simplicity of it all. My Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With just a few minutes of prep, this family-friendly dish transforms into a delightful one-pot wonder, perfect for those hectic weeknights when takeout tempts us. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a rich, tangy sauce that’s as hassle-free to make as it is delicious to devour. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to gather everyone at the table without the stress of complicated cooking. Are you curious about how to recreate this comforting classic in your own home? Let’s dive in!

Why is Crockpot Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Effortless Preparation: With just five minutes of prep, you can set your slow cooker and forget about it, making dinner a breeze.

Deliciously Versatile: This recipe is adaptable! Swap chicken for pork or tofu, or even serve over cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves this comforting dish, ensuring even the pickiest eaters are satisfied—just like my Buffalo Chicken Taquitos do!

Rich Flavor Explosion: Sweet orange marmalade paired with savory soy sauce creates a perfectly balanced sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying a meal with your loved ones!

Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this recipe an ideal choice for your week—a perfect complement to my Crockpot Chicken Corn for a quick and hearty dinner!

Crockpot Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders – This is your primary protein; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tenderness.

For the Sauce
• Orange Marmalade – Serves as the sweet and tangy base; substitute with orange juice concentrate for a lower-sugar option.
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds that umami depth; feel free to adjust the amount based on your salt preference.
• White Vinegar – Balances the sweetness; rice vinegar can provide a unique twist if you prefer.
• Sesame Oil – Imparts a rich, nutty flavor; can be omitted if unavailable.
• Ground Ginger – Adds warmth; switch to fresh ginger for a stronger flavor.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances depth; using fresh garlic is recommended for its potency.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Gives a hint of heat; adjust according to taste or omit for milder sauce.

For Browning
• Cornstarch – Coats the chicken for a nice crust; vital for preventing a rubbery texture.
• Olive Oil – Used for browning the chicken, adding flavor and achieving a golden finish.

For Garnish
• Sesame Seeds – Adds texture and a mild nutty flavor; can substitute with chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.

This Crockpot Orange Chicken is not only simple to make but bursts with flavors that will have your family coming back for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders into approximately 1-inch pieces, ensuring even cooking and tenderness. This step is crucial for creating that perfectly juicy chicken in your Crockpot Orange Chicken. Once cut, place them in a bowl to get ready for coating.

Step 2: Coat in Cornstarch
Next, thoroughly coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch, which is essential for achieving a light crust and preventing rubbery texture. After coating, set the chicken aside for a moment while you heat the oil. The cornstarch will help lock in moisture during the slow cooking process.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces to the hot skillet, browning them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. You don’t need to cook them through; just aim for a golden exterior. This step enhances the flavor of your Crockpot Orange Chicken, giving it a tasty depth.

Step 4: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, transfer it to your 6-quart slow cooker. This is where the magic happens! Making sure the chicken pieces are evenly distributed will help them cook uniformly in the upcoming steps, absorbing all that wonderful orange flavor.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, reduced-sodium soy sauce, white vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. This sauce is the heart of your Crockpot Orange Chicken, balancing sweetness and savory notes perfectly.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the browned chicken in the slow cooker. With gentle movements, stir to ensure every piece of chicken is coated evenly with the sauce. This step infuses the chicken with rich flavors while it cooks, resulting in a comforting one-pot meal.

Step 7: Set the Cooker
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. Stir halfway through cooking to promote even heat distribution. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
When your Crockpot Orange Chicken is cooked to perfection, garnish it with extra sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve it over fluffy rice or cauliflower rice for a delicious family meal. This dish looks as good as it tastes, promising smiles all around the dinner table!

What to Serve with Irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken

Looking to create a complete meal experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart?

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Perfectly steamed jasmine rice pairs beautifully, soaking up the vibrant orange sauce for a wholesome bite.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli enhances the dish with a crisp texture and fresh flavor. The mild taste goes perfectly with the rich sauce.
Cauliflower Rice: Choose a lighter option by serving with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still offers a great base for the chicken.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light soy sauce glaze, these noodles add a delightful chewiness that beautifully complements the tender chicken.
Asian Cucumber Salad: The cool, crunchy elements of this salad provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken, rounding out your meal.
Stir-Fried Mixed Veggies: A medley of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots brings color and nutrition to your plate, while harmonizing with Asian-inspired flavors.
Ginger Tea: A warm cup of ginger tea makes for a comforting beverage that echoes the dish’s warmth and cuts through any richness.

Create a dining experience that feels like a warm hug, with these pairings perfectly balancing your Crockpot Orange Chicken!

Crockpot Orange Chicken Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own, creating your family’s new favorite dish!

Protein Swap: Swap chicken with pork or tofu for a delightful twist; both options soak up the sauce beautifully.
Tropical Bliss: Use tropical fruit preserves instead of orange marmalade for an exotic flavor boost; mango or pineapple brings a refreshing change.
Cauliflower Rice: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal option that’s still packed with flavor and nutrition.
Add the Heat: Incorporate fresh chopped chili peppers or sriracha for an enjoyable spicy kick, perfect for those who love a bit of heat!
Veggie Add-In: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas into the slow cooker for added color and nutrients; they’ll soak up the sauce as they cook.
Citrus Variety: Experiment with lemon or lime marmalade instead of orange for a tangy twist; this could brighten up the flavor profile beautifully!
Nutty Finish: Garnish with toasted chopped nuts like cashews or peanuts instead of sesame seeds for a delicious crunch and nutty flavor.
Umami Upgrade: Add a splash of fish sauce or hoisin sauce for an extra layer of umami flavor that will elevate the dish, reminiscent of your favorite takeout.

No matter how you choose to customize, this recipe remains simple, heartwarming, and utterly delicious! Consider pairing it with my Cheesy Garlic Chicken for a full-blown culinary experience.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors of Crockpot Orange Chicken will deepen overnight, making it even tastier.

Freezer: Freeze in portioned, airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing to maintain quality.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Playing it Safe: If you’re unsure whether it’s still good, give it a smell—if it smells off, it’s best to toss it.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Orange Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can coat the chicken in cornstarch and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For added convenience, prepare the sauce ahead of time—mix the orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the prepped chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and cook as instructed. This way, your meal will be just as delicious while saving you valuable time, making dinner stress-free!

Tips for the Best Crockpot Orange Chicken

Coat with Cornstarch: Ensure chicken is evenly coated in cornstarch to avoid a rubbery texture; this step is crucial for the perfect bite.
Browning Matters: Don’t skip browning the chicken! This step adds depth and flavor to your Crockpot Orange Chicken, making it even more delicious.
Monitor Cooking Times: Be cautious not to overcook on HIGH; doing so can lead to stringy chicken. Opt for LOW heat when possible for tenderness.
Thicken the Sauce: If your sauce ends up too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken.
Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding fresh ginger or a sprinkle of green onions as a garnish to elevate the taste of your Crockpot Orange Chicken.

Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, both of which are perfect for tender and juicy results. If you’re in a pinch, frozen chicken can be used; just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How should I store leftover Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will actually deepen and improve overnight, making this dish even better the next day!

Can I freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! Cool the chicken completely before portioning it into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date for reference!

What should I do if the sauce turns out too thin?
No worries! If your sauce ends up thinner than you’d like, simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It’ll help thicken up beautifully as it continues to cook!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re concerned about allergies, be aware that this recipe contains soy sauce which has wheat. Substitute with a gluten-free soy sauce if you’re avoiding gluten. Additionally, if you have a citrus allergy, you can swap the orange marmalade with a fruit preserve of your choice—just make sure it has a similar sweetness!