There’s something magical about a recipe that transforms a handful of pantry staples into a dish bursting with vibrant flavor—and Crockpot Orange Chicken does just that. With its rich, glossy glaze and perfectly tender chicken, this dish marries the tangy sweetness of fresh orange juice with a savory umami kick from soy sauce.
The best part? The crockpot does all the heavy lifting, leaving you free to savor the incredible aroma wafting through your kitchen all day. Orange chicken has long been a takeout favorite, but making it at home in a healthier, no-fuss way is what makes this recipe truly special.
A tip I’ve learned along the way: cornstarch slurry is the secret to that thick, sticky sauce we all love. It’s a game-changer for recreating restaurant-style dishes. Pair this with fluffy rice, Low Carb Keto Coleslaw, or even some No Knead Dutch Oven Bread for a complete meal that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
The genius of this recipe lies in its balance—citrusy brightness, mellow sweetness, and that irresistible savory depth. Plus, oranges pack a hefty dose of Vitamin C, making this dish not just comforting but also nourishing.
So, grab your crockpot, and let’s bring this irresistible takeout classic to your table. I’d love to hear how you customize it—add extra spice, use blood oranges, or experiment with your favorite veggies. Let me know in the comments below!
What I Didn’t Expect About This Recipe?
- It’s easier than it looks. I was amazed at how a quick whisk of ingredients and a few hours in the crockpot produced such a flavorful dish.
- Everyone wanted seconds. Even picky eaters in my family couldn’t resist the sticky, tangy sauce and juicy chicken.
- The leftovers were even better. The flavors deepened overnight, making this an ideal meal prep option.
- It’s surprisingly versatile. Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even with roasted potatoes for a fun twist.
- It’s lighter than takeout. By skipping deep frying and using fresh ingredients, this recipe delivers all the flavor without the extra calories.
Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- 7-quart slow cooker
- Measuring spoons
- slow cooker liners optional
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Instant-read thermometer
- Gallon-sized ziptop plastic bag
- 2-cup measuring cup or medium bowl
Ingredients
- orange slices, optional for garnishing
- ½ tsp garlic powder or 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds, lightly toasted if desired
- 2 tbsp green onions, sliced thin for garnishing
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp pepper, or to taste
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp ground ginger, or to taste
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup orange marmalade
Instructions
- Optionally, line a 6-quart or 7-quart slow cooker with a liner for easy cleanup.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil at the bottom of the slow cooker or liner.
- In a large ziptop bag, combine chicken, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Seal and shake to coat the chicken.
- Transfer the chicken into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- In a 2-cup measuring cup or medium bowl, mix the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Stir the mixture until fully combined.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Cover and cook on high for about 2 hours, or low for about 4 hours, checking for doneness with a thermometer (165°F).
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, adding the cooking sauce over the top.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and optional orange wedges before serving.
- The crockpot orange chicken is reddy to be served. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust ginger to taste, as some people are sensitive to its flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, mix in an additional tablespoon of cornstarch.
- This recipe pairs well with rice or vegetables.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 359kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 44g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 26g |
| Cholesterol | 73g |
Variations To Help Your Customise This Dish!
- Add Heat: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes chopped fresh chilies, or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in some vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or snap peas. They’ll cook along with the chicken and add flavor and texture to the dish.
- Different Citrus: Swap the orange marmalade for lemon or lime marmalade for a different citrus profile. You can even combine citrus fruits for a more complex flavor.
- Soy Sauce Alternatives: For a lighter taste, use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
- Sweeten the Deal: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the tanginess of the vinegar and soy sauce.
