Unlock the secret to restaurant-quality orange chicken: our crockpot recipe decoded

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of orange chicken with this effortless crockpot recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will transport you to the bustling streets of China. Let your crockpot do the work while you sit back and savor the delectable aromas that fill your home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 orange, zested and juiced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

2. Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Dip the marinated chicken pieces into the cornstarch mixture and coat evenly.

3. Place in Crockpot: Transfer the coated chicken to your crockpot.

4. Add the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade ingredients (soy sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Pour over Chicken: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.

6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

7. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish with orange zest and chopped green onions. Serve over your favorite rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t become tough.
• Marinate the chicken overnight: This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in more flavorful chicken.
• Coat the chicken evenly with cornstarch: This will help create a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist inside.
• Simmer the sauce before adding it to the crockpot: This will help thicken the sauce and prevent it from becoming watery.
• Cook on low for longer: This will allow the chicken to become fall-off-the-bone tender.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for a kick.
• Honey Garlic Orange Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the sauce.
• Orange Chicken with Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or onions to the crockpot along with the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice: Serve the orange chicken over steamed rice or brown rice.
• Noodles: Pair the chicken with egg noodles, lo mein, or ramen noodles.
• Vegetables: Serve the chicken with a side of steamed broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas.

The Final Verdict

This orange chicken recipe for crockpot is a culinary masterpiece that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, fire up your crockpot, and embark on a delicious journey with our ultimate orange chicken recipe.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

A: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and refrigerate until ready to cook. The cooked orange chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: How do I reheat the orange chicken?

A: You can reheat the orange chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.

Q: Can I use other types of citrus juice instead of orange juice?

A: Yes, you can use lemon juice, lime juice, or grapefruit juice instead of orange juice. However, the flavor will vary slightly.