If you’re craving a warm bowl of sweet, savory goodness, this slow cooker orange chicken hits the spot. The citrus fragrance mingles with tender chicken, creating a succulent dish that sings with flavor. Prepare this in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a stress-free meal that tastes restaurant-quality.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2–3 medium oranges)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Thinly sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
First, season the chicken pieces with a dusting of salt and pepper. Place them in the slow cooker and spread them out evenly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you want a little kick). Pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are submerged.
Set the slow cooker to low heat, cover, and let the chicken simmer for about 4 hours. About 15 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch slurry into the sauce. Stir gently, then place the lid back on and cook for another 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
Once time’s up, use a spoon to coat each chicken piece generously in the orange glaze. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for a little color and crunch.
Serve this sweet and tangy chicken over steamy white or brown rice, or even a cauliflower rice if you prefer a lighter option.
This recipe couldn’t be simpler, and that’s part of its charm.
Why It’s Great: The combination of orange juice, honey, and savory soy sauce creates a balanced dish that appeals to both adults and kiddos alike. If you’d like to cut down on sugar, swap some of the honey for a sugar-free sweetener or reduce it entirely. Want more heat? Add a generous pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes. The beauty of this dish is in how easily it adapts to different palates. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent juggling family dinner, this slow cooker orange chicken is a fuss-free, aromatic meal that brings a burst of sunshine to any dinner table.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
