Introduction to Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
If you're a busy young professional, juggling work deadlines and social commitments, finding the time to prepare healthy meals can feel overwhelming. That's where an easy slow cooker orange chicken recipe comes in handy. With just a little prep, you can create a flavorful dish that cooks itself while you tackle your to-do list.
Why Slow Cooker Meals are Perfect for Young Professionals
Slow cookers are absolute game-changers for those of us balancing tight schedules. Here’s why they’re perfect for young professionals:
-
Set It and Forget It: Once you toss your ingredients in, your slow cooker handles the rest. Imagine coming home to a warm, ready meal without the fuss of meal preparation!
-
Flavor Infusion: Cooking slowly allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in rich and delicious dishes. This easy slow cooker orange chicken is a perfect example—tender chicken coated in a zesty glaze that simmers to perfection over a few hours.
-
Minimal Cleanup: With just one pot to wash, you can enjoy your delicious meal without the guilt of time wasted on dirty dishes.
For more tips on making meal prep a breeze, check out this helpful guide on slow cooker cooking techniques. Your kitchen will feel less like a battleground and more like a sanctuary!
Ingredients for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Essential Ingredients
To whip up this easy slow cooker orange chicken, you'll need a handful of simple ingredients that deliver big flavor. Here’s the essentials:
- Chicken: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cornstarch: ⅓ cup for a slight crunch when browning the chicken.
- Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons to sauté the chicken and help build flavor.
- Orange Marmalade: 1½ cups, which creates that sweet and tangy sauce we all love.
- Soy Sauce: ½ cup of low sodium for that rich umami flavor.
- Vinegar: 2 tablespoons of white vinegar adds brightness.
- Sesame Oil and Ground Ginger: These two provide a lovely depth to the sauce.
- Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: 3 cloves of minced garlic for aromatic zest and a dash of heat!
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Want to elevate your easy slow cooker orange chicken even further? Here are some fun optional add-ins:
- Red Bell Peppers: Chopped and added at the beginning for a pop of color and crunch.
- Additional Spices: If you like it spicy, consider increasing the red pepper flakes to ¾ teaspoon.
- Fresh Herbs: Stir in some chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving for a fresh finishing touch.
By combining these ingredients, you'll create a delightful slow cooker dish that tastes just like your favorite takeout! For more inspiration, check out this guide on flavor pairings for creative meal ideas.
Preparing Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Making easy slow cooker orange chicken at home is not only a breeze but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow these simple steps to transform basic ingredients into a delicious meal that will impress your friends and family.
Cut the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken breasts or tenders. You’ll want to cut them into bite-sized pieces, roughly about 1 inch. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs that exciting orange glaze perfectly. You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs too, according to your preference. Just make sure the pieces are similar in size for uniform cooking.
Coat the Chicken in Cornstarch
Next up, it’s time to give your chicken a little texture boost! In a shallow dish, pour ⅓ cup of cornstarch. Toss the chopped chicken pieces in the cornstarch until they are thoroughly coated. This step may feel minor, but it really helps in achieving that crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy as it cooks in your slow cooker. This technique is similar to what’s done in many restaurants to achieve the perfect crunch—who knew making your takeout favorites could be so simple?
Brown the Chicken
Now, let’s add a little color and flavor! Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the cornstarch-coated chicken in batches. You don’t need to cook it through here, just brown it lightly on each side. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors, creating a nice layer of taste when finished cooking in the slow cooker.
Mix the Sauce Ingredients
While your chicken is browning, it’s the perfect time to prepare the sauce that makes this dish sing! In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of orange marmalade, ½ cup of low sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon each of sesame oil and ground ginger, along with 3 minced garlic cloves, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. The combination of sweet and savory notes in this sauce is what sets your easy slow cooker orange chicken apart.
Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Once your chicken is browned, transfer the pieces into your slow cooker (ideally a 6-quart version). Pour the delicious sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Give everything a good stir to combine. Don’t forget—this is where the magic begins!
Cook and Stir
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 2-3 hours. It's a good idea to check and give it a stir halfway through cooking to ensure nothing is sticking to the sides. The smell will be heavenly, and by the end of the cooking time, your kitchen will feel like a delightful kitchen in a bustling Asian bistro.
When you're ready to serve up your easy slow cooker orange chicken, garnish it with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that finishing touch. Pair it with fluffy rice and steamed broccoli, and you'll have a meal that rivals any restaurant!
Variations on Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Spicy Orange Chicken
If you enjoy a little kick in your meals, try adding more heat to your easy slow cooker orange chicken! Increasing the red pepper flakes to ¾ teaspoon will give you that spicy flavor punch. Alternatively, you can toss in some diced jalapeños for a fresh, zesty twist. Just imagine that mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks!
Orange Chicken with Vegetables
Boost the nutritional value of your dish by adding veggies. Broccoli is a perfect accompaniment, but feel free to include sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just add the vegetables to the slow cooker for the final 30 minutes. This simple variation not only enhances the flavor but also turns your easy slow cooker orange chicken into a one-pot meal.
For more great variations, check out these tips from Delish to elevate your slow cooker game!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Cooking your easy slow cooker orange chicken can be a delightful experience with these handy tips:
-
Browning Matters: Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken. This adds depth of flavor and a lovely color that will enhance your dish.
-
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the red pepper flakes based on your preference for heat. If you enjoy a bit of spice, go for ¾ teaspoon!
-
Mix It Up: Want to add more texture? Toss in some chopped red bell peppers early in the cooking process for a pop of color and crunch.
-
Leftovers Lovin’: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Perfect for quick lunches!
For more slow cooker inspiration, check out The Pioneer Woman’s Slow Cooker Recipes. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Ideal Sides to Complement the Dish
For a balanced meal, pair your easy slow cooker orange chicken with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the delicious orange sauce beautifully. Consider using brown rice for a healthier option.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cook some bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy for color and crunch. Not only do they add nutrition, but they’re also vibrant on the plate.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: A crunchy side that provides texture and contrasts perfectly with the sweet chicken.
Presentation Tips for a Restaurant-Quality Look
To impress your guests, try these simple presentation tricks:
- Use a large, white plate to highlight the bright orange hues of the chicken.
- Garnish with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve the dish in individual bowls, topping each with a wedge of lime for a pop of freshness.
By putting just a bit of extra effort into the presentation, your home-cooked dish can look just as mouthwatering as your favorite restaurant’s offering!
Time Breakdown for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting started with your easy slow cooker orange chicken takes just 20 minutes. This involves cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces and coating it with cornstarch before browning in the skillet. It's a straightforward process that sets you up for success!
Cooking Time
Once your chicken is in the slow cooker with that delicious sauce, you'll need to cook it on LOW for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the chicken incredibly tender.
Total Time
From prep to table, your total time investment is around 3 hours and 20 minutes. This includes both the preparation and cooking times, making it an easy and efficient way to enjoy a satisfying homemade dinner.
For more tips on timing and maximizing flavor in your slow cooker meals, feel free to check out resources from sites like Food Network and Serious Eats. They'll help you master the art of slow cooking and make mealtime even easier!
Nutritional Facts for Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
When whipping up this easy slow cooker orange chicken, it's good to know what you're serving up. Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional stats per serving to help you stay informed about this tasty dish.
Calories
With approximately 421 calories per serving, this meal offers enough energy to keep you going throughout your day whether it's a busy workday or a weekend!
Protein
You're also getting a solid protein boost with about 34 grams in each serving. That's great for muscle recovery if you're hitting the gym or just need to feel full and satisfied!
Sodium
Keep in mind that this dish contains around 989 mg of sodium per serving. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using lower-sodium options for soy sauce or monitoring any additional seasonings.
Enjoy crafting your meal with this easy slow cooker orange chicken recipe, and know you're nourishing your body along the way! For more tips on ingredient swaps, check out resources like the American Heart Association's guidelines.
FAQs about Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can add the frozen chicken directly into the slow cooker, but expect an extra hour or so on the cooking time. Just make sure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F for optimal flavor and safety.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers from your delicious easy slow cooker orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken for up to three months. Be sure to reheat it thoroughly to retain its amazing flavor.
Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer a quicker method, the Instant Pot can work wonders. Sauté the chicken using the sauté function, add the sauce, then seal and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes. This will yield succulent chicken in a fraction of the time. For specific timing and adjustments, check out resources like Instant Pot's official guide.
Conclusion on Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
This easy slow cooker orange chicken is a delightful way to bring flavor and comfort to your weeknight dinners. With minimal prep and the perfect sweet-savory sauce, it's sure to become a family favorite. Serve with rice and steamed broccoli for a satisfying meal that tastes like takeout!
Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders cut into bite size pieces
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ cups orange marmalade about a 16 oz jar
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds more for garnish
- scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into approximately 1" pieces.
- Pour the cornstarch into a shallow dish, add the chicken, and toss to evenly coat.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and add the coated chicken. Lightly brown on each side, not cooking thoroughly.
- Transfer the browned chicken into the basin of a 6 quart slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes and sesame seeds.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Stir everything to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours. Check and stir halfway through to make sure it isn't burning.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve over rice.
Leave a Reply