Go Back

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Laura
Slow cooker orange chicken made tender in a sweet, citrusy sauce. An easy homemade favorite with bold flavor and effortless prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if you prefer)
  • Orange: Zest of 1 large orange and 3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
  • Soy sauce: 1/3 cup low-sodium
  • Brown sugar: 1/3 cup (light or dark)
  • Honey or maple syrup: 2 tablespoons
  • Rice vinegar: 2 tablespoons (or apple cider vinegar)
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced
  • Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
  • Water: 2–3 tablespoons (for the slurry)
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon (optional, for depth)
  • Orange marmalade: 2 tablespoons (optional, for extra citrus sweetness)
  • Green onions: 2–3, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon (optional garnish)
  • Cooked rice or quinoa: For serving
  • Steamed broccoli or snap peas: For serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the chicken: Trim any excess fat and cut the chicken into bite-size pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches. Pat dry with paper towels for better browning and texture.
  • Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil. If using orange marmalade, whisk it in now for a stronger orange note.
  • Load the slow cooker: Add the chicken to the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Stir to coat evenly.
  • Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 3.5–4.5 hours or on High for 2–2.5 hours. The chicken should be tender but not falling apart.
  • Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to form a smooth slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, turn heat to High, and cook for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  • Adjust to taste: Taste the sauce. Add a pinch of salt if needed, more vinegar for tang, or a drizzle of honey for sweetness. For a richer citrus punch, stir in a bit more zest at the end.
  • Finish and serve: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over hot rice with steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side.
QR Code linking back to recipe