Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that’s both flavorful and effortless, this Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is the perfect choice. Tender chicken is slow-cooked in a tangy orange sauce, resulting in a dish that’s both sweet and citrusy. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it a convenient option for any day of the week.

Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Make the Orange Sauce:

In a mixing bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), garlic, and ginger. Whisk until well combined.

Combine and Cook:

Pour the orange sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Optional Thickening:

For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, stir the slurry into the sauce and cook on high until the sauce has thickened.

Shred and Serve:

Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.

Serve the chicken over rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Tips for Success:
Frozen Chicken: You can use frozen chicken; just be sure to extend the cooking time by about an hour.

Adding Vegetables: For a complete meal, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.

This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken combines the ease of slow cooking with the bright, bold flavors of orange. It’s a no-fuss, delicious way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this wonderful dish!