Crockpot Orange Chicken – Effortless Chinese Takeaway at Home

Easy Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe - Better Than Takeout!

By Chef MayaJune 23, 2025

Ditch the takeaway! This easy crockpot orange chicken recipe is a game-changer. Tender chicken in a tangy, homemade orange sauce. Get ready for a flavour explosion! ... Slow Cooker Favorites

Table of Contents

☷

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a proper tasty takeaway treat? Honestly, who doesn't? This crockpot orange chicken is a game-changer. It delivers that sweet, tangy, and all-around addictive orange chicken flavour.

Brief Overview

This asian orange chicken recipe is inspired by chinese cuisine. it brings those vibrant flavours right to your kitchen. it’s super easy.

Prep takes about 15 mins, then the slow cooker does all the work. serves 4-6 hungry souls.

Main Benefits

This easy orange chicken is healthier than the takeaway version. it cuts down on all those hidden nasties. it is perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a relaxed get-together.

I think the best benefit is that you do not need to monitor the cooker and the chicken stays moist and lovely, unlike frying!

Why This Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe Rocks

Okay, so i've had my fair share of dodgy takeaways. remember that time when the sweet and sour came with a rogue hair, lol.

But this orange chicken recipe lets you control everything . you know exactly what goes in it. now, this isn't just any orange chicken crock pot recipe.

I promise you it is top tier!

My secret? freshly squeezed orange juice. it makes all the difference, like the difference between instant coffee and a proper latte.

It brings the sunshine right into the dish. my advice is that you use slow cooker orange chicken thighs . they stay succulent like you wouldn't believe, and you can use them in a crockpot orange chicken with rice recipe.

I've adapted this recipe over time, so it's just right for my family. they're orange chicken obsessed. the first time i made it, they devoured it.

I mean, gone in minutes! and my partner said that the homemade orange chicken sauce was better than any takeaway that he has had before.

Crockpot Orange Chicken – Effortless Chinese Takeaway at Home presentation

Crockpot Orange Chicken: Key to Deliciousness

One thing that makes this recipe so brilliant is the sauce. balancing sweet, savoury, and a touch of heat is key.

It really makes this crockpot orange chicken for dinner special. plus, the slow cooking method ensures the chicken is fall-apart tender.

It's a totally perfect weeknight meal.

By the way, if you need it, this is a Crockpot Orange Chicken Gluten Free recipe if you use Tamari or coconut aminos. Enjoy.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Secret Weapons for Crockpot Orange Chicken Success

Right, let's get down to brass tacks. To nail this easy orange chicken , you need the right gear and grub. Don't worry, it's nothing too cheffy.

Main Ingredients for Cracking Orange Chicken Recipe

This recipe is all about that sweet and tangy goodness. These measurements are spot on and the same for metric too.

For the Chicken:

2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are the key! They stay juicy in the slow cooker.
1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch. This helps the sauce stick like glue.
1/4 tsp salt. Because flavour, innit?
1/4 tsp black pepper. Adds a bit of warmth.

For that Knockout Orange Sauce:

1 cup (240ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed, if you can. Honestly, it makes a difference. None of that carton stuff!
1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium soy sauce. Go easy on the salt. Nobody wants a salty surprise.
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed. Adds that lovely sweetness.
1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar. Gives it that zing.
2 tablespoons honey. For extra stickiness and flavour.
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Fresh is best, trust me.
2 cloves garlic, minced. Because garlic makes everything better.
1 teaspoon orange zest. Essential for that Chinese orange chicken recipes easy vibe.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). For a kick, if you're feeling brave.
2 tablespoons cornstarch. Thickens the sauce like a dream.
2 tablespoons water. To make a slurry with the cornstarch.

Seasoning Notes for Asian Orange Chicken Recipe

Ginger, garlic, and orange zest are your flavour heroes. play around with the red pepper flakes to get the heat just right.

Fancy a bit of a twist? try adding a pinch of five-spice powder!

If you're all out of rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar will do in a pinch. Don’t tell anyone I told you that.

Essential Equipment for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken Thighs

You don't need much. Just the basics for your crockpot orange chicken with rice .

Crockpot/Slow Cooker. At least a 4-quart one.
Mixing bowls. For mixing, obviously.
Whisk. For making that sauce smooth as silk.
Measuring cups and spoons. Don’t guess – measure!

Cooking Method: Get Ready for Some Crockpot Orange Chicken Magic

Fancy some proper tasty chinese orange chicken recipes easy but can't be bothered with the faff? this crockpot orange chicken is your answer.

Seriously, this is the kind of dish that makes you think, "why haven't i been doing this all my life?" it's so simple even my nan could manage it, and she once set fire to a pot noodle.

Honestly, it's the best way to get that easy orange chicken flavour.

Prep Steps: Setting You Up for Success

First things first: the essential mise en place . basically, get all your ingredients measured and chopped. get your 2 lbs (900g) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces.

Chop your garlic and ginger, and measure out your sauces and spices. time-saving tip: pre-chop the garlic and ginger the night before.

Just saves a bit of time. also, if you use store bought ingredients, read the labels of them to guarantee crockpot orange chicken gluten free .

Step-by-Step: From Zero to Hero

Toss the chicken with 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch , 1/4 tsp salt , and 1/4 tsp black pepper . Make sure it's all evenly coated.
Whisk together 1 cup (240ml) orange juice , 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce , 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar , 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar , 2 tablespoons honey , 1 tablespoon ginger , 2 cloves garlic , 1 teaspoon orange zest , and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes in a bowl.
Chuck the chicken in the crockpot. Pour the orange sauce over the top.
Slow cook on low for 4- 6 hours or high for 2- 3 hours . The chicken should be cooked through and tender. Use a meat thermometer! It needs to reach 165° F ( 74° C) .
Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water . Pour into the crockpot. Stir it all up. Cook on high for 15- 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve this incredible orange chicken crock pot over rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Enjoy!

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Orange Chicken Game

Want to take this asian orange chicken recipe to the next level? try marinating the chicken in the sauce overnight.

Seriously, the flavour intensifies like you wouldn't believe. another tip? don't overcook the chicken! it goes dry and nobody wants dry chicken.

And honestly, i suggest you make it with slow cooker orange chicken thighs . also, if you're planning a crockpot orange chicken for dinner , this is a game changer.

And here's a fun fact: Did you know that orange chicken is a relatively new invention? It became popular in North America in the late 20th century! Now get cooking, you culinary superstar! This will be a crockpot orange chicken with rice to remember!

Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Crockpot Orange Chicken Game

Right, so you're ready to tackle this crockpot orange chicken ! ace. now, before you dive in, here are a few extra bits of wisdom to make sure it's absolutely banging .

Honestly, little tweaks can make all the difference, innit?

Serving Suggestions: Show It Off

Presentation matters, even for a humble orange chicken crock pot . pile that beautiful easy orange chicken high on a bed of fluffy rice.

It's like a hug in a bowl. sprinkle sesame seeds for a bit of fancy. i sometimes add some vibrant green spring onions for a pop of color.

Steamed broccoli or a quick stir-fry are perfect sides. a cold beer or a crisp glass of white wine goes down a treat too.

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

Leftovers are your friend. i always make a big batch of chinese orange chicken recipes easy , so that's a bonus.

Let the asian orange chicken recipe cool completely before shoving it in an airtight container. it'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freezing is your best bet. portion it out into freezer bags. squeeze out the air to avoid freezer burn.

It'll last for about 2-3 months. reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems a bit dry.

Variations: Make It Your Own

Fancy a twist? for a crockpot orange chicken gluten free version, swap the soy sauce with tamari. easy peasy. if you're watching your sugar, reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute.

When autumn rolls around, i sometimes add a touch of apple cider vinegar for a seasonal kick. you know? it's like adding a bit of autumnal magic.

For the keto lifestyle, there are plenty of sweetener swaps you can do.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

Okay, let's be real. this orange chicken recipe isn't exactly health food. but it is delicious. the chicken gives you protein.

That's important. oranges give you vitamin c. always a bonus. if you want to bump up the nutrients, serve it with loads of veggies.

The recipe is very customisable, but slow cooker orange chicken thighs are the way to go if you want tasty and nutritious.

Remember, homemade is always better than a takeaway. the main benefit is you control the ingredients. so it's basically health food.

.. kinda.

So, there you have it. your crockpot orange chicken for dinner is sorted. follow these tips and it will be a masterpiece.

Get in the kitchen. have a laugh. enjoy homemade orange chicken sauce . and don't forget to share your successes!

Delicious Easy Orange Chicken: The Slow Cooker Secret!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this crockpot orange chicken recipe?

Absolutely, you can substitute chicken breasts! However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be drier than thighs, especially when slow-cooked. To prevent them from drying out, consider reducing the cooking time by about an hour, and make sure they are fully submerged in the orange sauce. Nobody wants a chicken as dry as the Sahara!

My orange chicken sauce is too thin! How do I thicken it in the crockpot?

A thin sauce is a common issue, but easily fixed. As the recipe suggests, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the crockpot during the last 15-30 minutes of cooking, turning the heat up to high. If you're still finding it a bit runny, you can repeat the process with another tablespoon of cornstarch until you reach your desired consistency. A thicker sauce clings to the chicken better, like gravy on a Sunday roast!

How long can I store leftover crockpot orange chicken, and what's the best way to reheat it?

Leftover crockpot orange chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, you can microwave it (though this can sometimes make the chicken a little rubbery). A better option is to reheat it in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. This helps keep it nice and juicy for the next serving. Don't reheat it more than once, mind!

Can I make this crockpot orange chicken ahead of time?

You certainly can! Preparing the sauce in advance is a great time-saver. You can whisk all the sauce ingredients together and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before pouring it over the chicken in the crockpot. You can also fully cook the dish and then refrigerate or freeze it, making sure it cools completely first. A bit of forward planning never hurt anyone!

Is there a way to reduce the sugar content in this crockpot orange chicken recipe?

Yes, you can definitely tweak the sweetness. Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit instead of brown sugar. You can also reduce the amount of honey, or use a sugar-free alternative. When choosing your orange juice, opt for a variety with no added sugar. You could add a dash of extra rice vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavours. Every little helps, as they say!

I don't have rice vinegar. What's a good substitute to use in this Crockpot Orange Chicken?

No rice vinegar, no worries! Apple cider vinegar is a decent substitute that will provide a similar tang. White wine vinegar will also work in a pinch, but be mindful that the flavour is a bit stronger, so use slightly less (about 3 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup). Avoid using malt vinegar if you can, it'll change the flavour profile completely!