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Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes

Savor tender bites of chicken coated in a vibrant orange-infused sauce, simmered to perfection in the slow cooker. After a quick browning, chicken pieces are combined with orange marmalade, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. The flavors slowly meld, creating a glossy, sweet, and savory glaze. Serve over fluffy white rice and top with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for added freshness and crunch. This dish captures the takeout favorite in a comforting home-cooked version, ideal for busy days and flavorful dinners.

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Authored By Tyla
Updated on Thu, 15 May 2025 18:58:26 GMT
Une assiette de poulet chinois est servie dans un bol. Save
Une assiette de poulet chinois est servie dans un bol. | savorieswithtyla.com

This slow cooker orange chicken recipe solves a major craving for takeout with just a bit of prep and a hands-off cook time. You will get juicy bits of chicken soaked in a glossy sweet and tangy orange sauce that clings to every bite. Perfect for busy nights or a homemade feast when you want comfort food without the hassle.

I first made this when we moved into our house and needed something reliable for guests everyone asked for the recipe and now my family expects it in the dinner rotation at least once a month

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders: use fresh plump pieces for the juiciest result slice into even sizes for best cooking
  • Cornstarch: this is key for the crispy coating do not skip it go for one that is lump free
  • Olive oil: choose extra virgin for the best flavor but light works well too
  • Orange marmalade: pick a good quality jar with plenty of orange peel for deep citrus flavor
  • Low sodium soy sauce: keep seasoning in check so the dish is not too salty
  • Vinegar: helps brighten the sauce and balance the sweetness a mild rice vinegar is my favorite
  • Sesame oil: adds a layered nutty fragrance a little goes a long way
  • Ground ginger: delivers warmth and works beautifully with the orange be sure it is fresh
  • Garlic: I always use freshly minced for maximum punch
  • Red pepper flakes: these bring a gentle heat use more or less to taste
  • Sesame seeds: toast them if you can for extra crunch and flavor
  • Scallions: bright finishing touch that brings color and freshness

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:
Cut the chicken into small uniform pieces about one inch each This ensures the meat cooks up tender and soaks in all the sauce
Coat and Brown:
Dredge the chicken evenly in cornstarch in a shallow dish this gives you that signature delicate crispness Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium high and add the coated chicken Work in batches if needed Browning only takes a few minutes per side and you do not need to cook the chicken through This step locks in those juices
Make the Sauce:
Grab a medium mixing bowl and whisk together the orange marmalade soy sauce vinegar sesame oil ground ginger minced garlic red pepper flakes and sesame seeds The sauce should look shiny and smell delicious
Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker and pour the sauce all over every piece Stir to combine so every bite gets coated
Cook to Perfection:
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for about two to three hours Stir halfway through to prevent sticking or burning The chicken will become incredibly tender as it soaks up all the orange flavors
Finish and Serve:
Just before serving garnish with extra sesame seeds and plenty of chopped scallions Spoon everything over steamed rice and add a side of broccoli for a complete meal
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Une assiette de riz avec des morceaux de poulet sauce orange. | savorieswithtyla.com

Orange marmalade is my favorite ingredient here I love the way the real orange peel melts into the sauce If you can find one with chunky bits it tastes even more like classic takeout My kids always cheer when they see the scallion and seed topping because they know it means homemade orange chicken night

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The sauce thickens as it sits so add a splash of water before reheating Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave stir often for even heating

Best Ingredient Swaps

Chicken thighs work just as well as breasts and bring a richer flavor If you do not have orange marmalade try a mix of orange juice and a few tablespoons of honey Add extra ginger or garlic for more punch For a gluten free version use tamari in place of soy sauce

Serving Suggestions

Serve this orange chicken over steamed jasmine or basmati rice Stir fried vegetables or steamed broccoli make an easy colorful side For a twist top with crushed peanuts or toss in some red bell pepper strips for crunch

Une assiette de poulet chinois avec des herbes et des grains de riz. Save
Une assiette de poulet chinois avec des herbes et des grains de riz. | savorieswithtyla.com

The Story Behind Orange Chicken

Orange chicken is a Chinese American classic with roots in Southern California It is known for its bold sweet and tangy flavor and shiny sticky sauce The slow cooker version lets you achieve that takeout taste with less oil and hands free cooking making it easy to bring a taste of your favorite Chinese spot home

Recipe Questions

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders are ideal. Boneless thighs can be used for a juicier texture.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, chopped red bell peppers or broccoli can be added at the beginning for extra flavor and color.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from burning?

Stir once halfway through cooking and keep the slow cooker on low to avoid burning the glaze.

→ Is it possible to make it spicier?

Increase red pepper flakes to your taste for more heat. Start with 3/4 teaspoon if you like it spicy.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ What can I serve on the side?

Steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or a simple salad make great companions for this dish.

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Chicken in sweet orange glaze, slow cooked for tenderness. Serve with rice and vegetables for an effortless, delicious meal.

Prep Duration
20 mins
Cooking Duration
180 mins
Overall Time
200 mins
Authored By: Tyla

Recipe Type: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Great for Beginners

Cuisine Type: Asian-inspired

Serves: 6 Portions

Diet Preferences: Dairy-Free Alternative

What You Need

→ Main

01 900 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
02 45 g cornstarch
03 60 ml olive oil

→ Sauce

04 360 g orange marmalade
05 120 ml low sodium soy sauce
06 30 ml vinegar
07 5 ml sesame oil
08 5 g ground ginger
09 3 cloves garlic, minced
10 2 g red pepper flakes
11 5 g sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
12 Scallions, sliced (for garnish)

How to Make It

Step 01

Dice the chicken into uniform 2.5 cm pieces for even cooking.

Step 02

Place cornstarch in a shallow bowl, add chicken pieces, and toss to coat thoroughly.

Step 03

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add coated chicken and brown on all sides, ensuring not to cook through.

Step 04

Move the browned chicken into the basin of a 6-litre slow cooker.

Step 05

In a medium bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds until smooth.

Step 06

Pour the prepared sauce over the browned chicken in the slow cooker and gently mix to ensure even coating.

Step 07

Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking or burning.

Step 08

Top with additional sesame seeds and sliced scallions before serving. Serve hot, ideally over steamed rice.

Important Notes

  1. For a spicier flavour, increase red pepper flakes up to 3 g. Chopped red bell peppers may be added for extra colour and crunch.
  2. Orange marmalade amounts to a standard 450–500 g jar. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tools You’ll Need

  • 6-litre slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Kitchen knife

Allergy Details

Always check the ingredients for allergens and consult an expert if necessary.
  • Contains soy (soy sauce)
  • Contains sesame

Nutritional Details (Each Serving)

This nutrition info is for reference only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calorie Count: 421
  • Total Fat: 5 grams
  • Total Carbs: 62 grams
  • Protein Content: 34 grams