Description
A comforting and aromatic slow cooker orange chicken dish that combines bright citrus flavors with tender, juicy chicken, perfect for busy home bakers.
Ingredients
- 2.5–3 lbs boneless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into large pieces
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3–4 oranges)
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and orange slices
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper and place them in the slow cooker.
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth.
- Combine and cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken, cover, and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–2.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the sauce: About 20–30 minutes before serving, remove a half cup of cooking liquid into a small bowl, whisk in the cornstarch slurry, then pour back into the slow cooker and turn heat to high to thicken.
- Finish and serve: When the sauce has glossy thickness, taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds and serve over steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or buttery noodles.
Notes
Use dark meat for juiciness, and don’t skip the fresh orange zest for brightness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian