Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a ticket to flavor town that transforms your dining experience. Imagine tender, succulent chicken thighs simmering in a tangy orange sauce infused with the richness of soy and the warmth of garlic and ginger. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, making mealtime feel special without the fuss. It’s the kind of recipe that brings comfort to the table and smiles all around. Trust me, once you get a taste, you’ll want to make it a staple in your kitchen!
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken, but let’s start with the obvious: convenience! This dish is a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that practically cooks itself. It’s budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients to create a flavor-packed dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. Picture a cozy weeknight dinner where you can spend quality time with family while the magic happens in your crockpot.
"Absolutely loved this recipe! The chicken was so tender and bursting with flavor. It’s now a regular in our dinner rotation." – Happy Home Cook
How to make Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken
Step-by-step overview
Creating this delightful dish is straightforward and requires minimal effort. You’ll start by mixing a few key ingredients to make the flavorful orange sauce. After that, it’s all about letting the crockpot do its work. In no time, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma inviting everyone to the dinner table. Let’s break it down into uncomplicated steps!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option, if desired!
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the prepared orange sauce over them, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and add it to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce to combine.
- Serve over rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds to elevate your dish.
How to serve Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken
Best ways to enjoy it
To make your meal even more enjoyable, serving this chicken over perfectly steamed rice is a surefire choice. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a balanced plate. For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some additional sesame seeds and offer lime wedges for a zesty kick. You might even consider offering some warm naan on the side to soak up that delicious sauce!
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is always a good idea!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken can last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the chicken in portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken, here are some extra tips:
- For more depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Want it spicier? Add a splash of sriracha or some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Don’t skip garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds; they add not just flavor but also a beautiful presentation.
Variations
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can easily personalize this recipe. Swap out orange juice for pineapple juice for a tropical flavor twist. Alternatively, try adding some veggies into the crockpot, like bell peppers or broccoli, for a one-pot meal. If you’re going low-carb, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
Common questions
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The hands-on prep time is about 15 minutes, with cook times ranging from 3-7 hours depending on your chosen setting—high or low.Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts instead of thighs, though they might cook faster, so check for doneness sooner.Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!
This Asian Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the blissful blend of ease and taste with every bite!
PrintAsian Crockpot Orange Chicken
A tender and flavorful dish featuring chicken thighs simmered in a tangy orange sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the prepared orange sauce over them, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and add it to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce to combine.
- Serve over rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Feel free to use chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option. For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken beforehand.