The quest for simple yet delicious meals often leads us to the trusty crockpot, where magic happens with minimal effort. This was precisely my thought when I stumbled upon the Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken recipe. In search of a dish that would not only satisfy a craving for something sweet and savory but also fit into a hectic schedule, this recipe seemed like a beacon of hope. And it did not disappoint. The end result was a tender, flavorful chicken that effortlessly combined the tangy sweetness of orange marmalade with the smoky depth of BBQ sauce, all rounded off with the umami of soy sauce. It was a hit with my family, providing a delightful twist on the classic orange chicken that’s usually fried. This version, not only easier, was also healthier, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners. The ease of preparation and the joy of coming home to a meal ready to be served made this dish a recurring star in our meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup orange marmalade
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the crockpot.
- Cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
- After the cooking time has elapsed, drain any juices from the crockpot.
- At this point, you have the option to leave the chicken breasts whole or remove them, cut them into cubes, and then return them to the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Continue cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve the orange chicken over rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories per serving. (Note: This is an estimate. Actual calories may vary based on specific ingredient choices and serving sizes.)
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 3.5 hours on high or 6.5 hours on low
- Total time: Approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes on high or 6 hours and 40 minutes on low
Additional Tips
- For a thicker sauce, consider mixing in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in a tablespoon of water into the sauce before pouring it over the chicken.
- Add a citrus kick by including a tablespoon of fresh orange zest to the sauce mixture for a brighter flavor.
- Make it spicy by adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- For a lower sugar option, look for reduced-sugar orange marmalade and BBQ sauce.
- Garnish before serving with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly upwards to ensure the chicken cooks through completely.
- Can I substitute orange marmalade with something else? Orange marmalade is key for the flavor profile, but in a pinch, you could use apricot preserves mixed with a little orange juice.
- Is it possible to overcook the chicken in a crockpot? While crockpots are forgiving, cooking the chicken too long, especially on high, can dry it out. Stick to the recommended times.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking can turn this into a one-pot meal.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
- Can this dish be frozen? Yes, the cooked orange chicken freezes well. Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Can I use a different type of protein? This recipe would also work well with thighs or even pork, adjusting the cooking time as needed for different cuts.
- How can I make this dish healthier? Opt for a low-sodium soy sauce and a homemade or low-sugar BBQ sauce to reduce sugar and sodium content.
- What can I serve with this orange chicken besides rice? Try serving it over noodles, quinoa, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to sear the chicken and then cooking it on manual high pressure for about 10 minutes with a quick release.
Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, proving that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Its simplicity, combined with the rich flavors, makes it a perfect option for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine without adding stress to their evening.