Indulge in the ultimate flavor explosion: orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade crockpot

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this tantalizing orange chicken recipe, crafted with the convenience of a crockpot and the burst of orange marmalade. This dish combines the tangy sweetness of oranges with the savory richness of chicken, creating a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients for the Orange Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Ingredients for the Orange Sauce

• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup orange marmalade
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the chicken with the cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
3. Combine the Orange Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water.
4. Add the Sauce to the Crockpot: Transfer the browned chicken to a 4-quart crockpot. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken.
5. Add Flavors: Stir in the honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and black pepper.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve: Serve the orange chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips for a Perfect Orange Chicken

• Use fresh orange marmalade: The zestiness of fresh marmalade will elevate the flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or orange marmalade.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken overcooked in the crockpot can become dry. Cook until tender but still juicy.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Rice, noodles, or vegetables complement the orange chicken perfectly.

The Magic of Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade, a staple in British cuisine, is a key ingredient in this recipe. Its sweet and tangy flavor adds a delightful balance to the savory chicken. The marmalade’s citrusy aroma infuses the dish with a refreshing fragrance.

Health Benefits of Orange Chicken

While orange chicken is not a health food, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Chicken is a lean protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Vitamin C: Oranges are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
• Fiber: Orange marmalade contains pectin, a soluble fiber that aids digestion.

Orange Chicken Variations

• Spicy Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sesame Orange Chicken: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken before cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Broccoli Orange Chicken: Add chopped broccoli florets to the crockpot for a healthy twist.

Recommendations: A Culinary Symphony of Sweet and Savory

This orange chicken recipe with orange marmalade crockpot is a culinary masterpiece that combines the tantalizing flavors of sweet and savory. The tender chicken, tangy orange sauce, and vibrant aromas create a dish that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for orange marmalade?
A: If you don’t have orange marmalade, you can use apricot or peach preserves instead.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, simply add the chicken and cook as directed.