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Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken That Tastes Like Takeout

This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken combines sweet and savory elements for a takeout-inspired dish that transforms weeknight dinners into a delight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders Substitute with boneless thighs for extra moisture.
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch Coats the chicken for crispy texture.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For browning the chicken; can swap for vegetable oil.
  • 1/2 cup Orange Marmalade Provides the sweet and tangy flavor base.
  • 1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Excellent gluten-free substitutes include tamari or coconut aminos.
  • 2 tbsp White Vinegar Balances sweetness; rice vinegar is an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Oil Can be omitted or replaced with more olive oil.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 tbsp Ground Ginger Essential for aromatic flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for enhanced flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Customizable for spice preference.
For Garnishing
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds Optional but enhances presentation.
  • 2 stalks Scallions Chopped for garnish; can swap with green onions.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders into bite-sized pieces. In a shallow dish, coat each piece with cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly covered.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces, browning them each side for about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine orange marmalade, low sodium soy sauce, white vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Pour the prepared sauce over the browned chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and set to LOW heat for 2-3 hours. Stir halfway through cooking time.
  5. Once cooked, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped scallions over the dish. Serve over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 28gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Browning the chicken enhances its flavor and texture. Ensure it reaches 165°F for safety. If a thicker sauce is desired, add a cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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