Slow-Cooked Orange Chicken Recipe: Easy, Sweet, and Savory

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Introduction
Craving that delicious, sweet, and savory orange chicken you’d get from your favorite takeout place? This recipe will change the game—it’s made entirely in a slow cooker, and you’ll only need a little stovetop browning to get it started. Not only does this save you time, but it also delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home. Perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, this orange chicken pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.

Let’s dive in and make some slow-cooked magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Prep: Minimal hands-on time with the slow cooker doing all the work.
  • Takeout Flavor at Home: Sweet, savory, and perfectly balanced, just like your favorite Asian restaurants.
  • Versatile: Serve with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Food Prep Made Simple

To ensure every bite is packed with flavor, start by cutting chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. Though chicken breasts work just as well, tenders provide a more delicate texture. Lightly coat them in cornstarch for a golden exterior when browned.

This recipe features pantry staples like orange marmalade, soy sauce, and sesame oil. If you love Asian-inspired cooking, keep these essentials on hand—you’ll find yourself reaching for them time and again!

Healthy and Balanced

By using a slow cooker and skipping deep-frying, this dish is both healthier and simpler to prepare. The sweetness from the orange marmalade is perfectly balanced by soy sauce and garlic, while fresh ginger adds depth and a zing of flavor.

Equipment and Tools You’ll Need

  • Slow Cooker or Crockpot: The star of the show for hands-off cooking.
  • Large Non-Stick Pan: For browning the chicken.
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: To trim and cube the chicken.
  • Mixing Bowl: For combining the sauce.
  • Whisk: Ensures the sauce ingredients blend smoothly.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for the sauce balance.

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 2 lbs chicken tenders or breasts, trimmed and cubed.
  • Cornstarch: For coating the chicken before browning.
  • Orange Sauce:
    • 1 ½ cups orange marmalade
    • ¼ cup soy sauce
    • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    • 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced (plus ½ tsp garlic powder for extra flavor)
    • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
    • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
    • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (save some for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Chicken

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat them evenly with cornstarch.
  2. Heat a large pan over medium heat with 4 tbsp garlic-infused olive oil. Once hot, brown the chicken in batches, ensuring a golden exterior without fully cooking the meat. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce until smooth.
  2. Adjust consistency if needed by adding a splash of water or stock.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

  1. Place the browned chicken into the slow cooker.
  2. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours. Stir halfway through the cooking process to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  1. Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, serve it hot over steamed white rice or fried rice.
  2. Sprinkle sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions as garnish.

Tips & Variations

  • Add Heat: Toss in a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce for tamari.

Final Thoughts
This slow-cooked orange chicken delivers all the bold flavors of takeout with the comfort of a home-cooked meal. The sweetness of the marmalade perfectly complements the savory garlic and soy sauce, while the slow cooker ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.

Did you try this recipe? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us.

About the Author
Hi, I’m Nikki! I love turning everyday recipes into something extraordinary. Follow me for more easy, family-friendly dishes that simplify your time in the kitchen.

Enjoy your meal!

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