Crockpot Orange Chicken: Effortless Dinner for Busy Nights

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s a certain joy that comes from stepping into a kitchen where the fragrant scents of homemade meals linger in the air. That s exactly how I felt after discovering this incredible Crockpot Orange Chicken recipe, which turned my busy weeknight dinners into delightful culinary adventures. This dish combines tender chicken enveloped in a sweet and tangy orange sauce that rivals any takeout you can find. The best part? It takes just five minutes of your time to prepare!

Picture this: after a long day, you walk into your home to find a meal that feels like a warm hug. With its glossy sauce and a hint of warmth from ginger and garlic, this crowd-pleaser not only satisfies your taste buds but also tugs at your heartstrings. Whether you re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this dish promises comfort and ease, allowing you to savor delicious homemade food without the hassle. Let s dive into the simplicity of flavor with this irresistible Crockpot Orange Chicken!

Why is Crockpot Orange Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This dish requires just five minutes of prep time, letting you enjoy more moments with family.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy orange sauce, complemented by garlic and ginger, makes every bite an experience to savor.
Versatile Protein: Feel free to swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp, making it adaptable to any diet.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for feeding a family, sure to prompt happy smiles around the dinner table.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy leftovers, ideal for busy weeknights! As a helpful tip, check out my guide on meal prepping tips for more inspiration.

Crockpot Orange Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
Chicken 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders, providing a tender protein base that can be cooked to perfection.

For the Coating
Cornstarch 1/3 cup, essential for creating a light crust when browned, giving the chicken that delightful texture.
Olive Oil 4 tbsp, perfect for browning the chicken and enhancing its flavor while preventing sogginess.

For the Sauce
Orange Marmalade 1 1/2 cups (one 16 oz jar), which offers sweetness and tanginess, forming the backbone of the flavorful sauce.
Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce 1/2 cup, adding a touch of umami and the right amount of saltiness to balance the dish.
White Vinegar 2 tbsp, balancing the sauce s sweetness with a slight acidity for depth.
Sesame Oil 1 tsp, imparting a nutty aroma and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Ground Ginger 1 tsp, adding warmth and spice; adjust to your flavor preference for a bolder kick.
Garlic 3 cloves, minced, which deepens the dish s complexity with its robust flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes 1/2 tsp, providing a mild heat; feel free to adjust based on your heat tolerance.
Sesame Seeds 1 tsp for the sauce plus extra for garnish, adding texture and a decorative flair.

For Garnish
Chopped Scallions Brightens the dish with color and a mild oniony flavor, making it more visually appealing and delicious.

How to Make Crockpot Orange Chicken

1. Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat them evenly with cornstarch. This step is crucial for that delightful light crust when browning, enhancing texture and flavor.

2. Brown Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and brown it until lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer the chicken to your slow cooker.

3. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, reduced-sodium soy sauce, white vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds until smooth. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. Be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even flavor and texture distribution.

5. Serve: When done, serve your delicious orange chicken over cooked rice, and garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped scallions for that perfect finishing touch!

Optional: Serve with steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

For those busy home cooks, this Crockpot Orange Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can slice the chicken and coat it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the fridge to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce by whisking together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days before you plan to serve. When you re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, simply brown the chicken, add it to the slow cooker, pour the sauce over, and cook as directed. This way, you ll save valuable time and still enjoy those comforting flavors that make the Crockpot Orange Chicken so irresistible!

Crockpot Orange Chicken Variations

Customize your meal with these vibrant suggestions that will delight your taste buds and make the dish your own!

• Protein Swap: Try tofu or shrimp for a fun twist on this classic recipe, perfect for different dietary preferences.

• Fruit Alternatives: Substitute orange marmalade with apricot or peach preserves to explore new fruity flavors without compromising on sweetness.

• Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli or snap peas to incorporate fresh veggies that enhance nutrition and add a pop of color to your dish.

• Heat Factor: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add freshly sliced chili for those who enjoy a bit more spice in their orange chicken.

• Carb Switch: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a lower-carb option that s still satisfying and delicious.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

• Nutty Flair: Stir in chopped cashews or peanuts for added texture and a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.

• Herbal Notes: Toss in fresh cilantro or basil right before serving for a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.

How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it s in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Wrapping: For best results, wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to lock in moisture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Orange Chicken

• Coating Matter: Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with cornstarch before browning. This prevents rubbery texture and enhances the overall mouthfeel.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking on HIGH. Check the chicken for doneness after 1.5 hours to maintain tender, juicy pieces.

• Thicken Sauce: If the sauce appears thin at the end of cooking, whip up a cornstarch-water mixture and add it during the last 30 minutes this creates that perfect glossy finish.

• Customize Flavor: Don t hesitate to adjust the ground ginger and crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences for a bolder or milder flavor.

• Garnishing Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds and chopped scallions just before serving to not only elevate the flavor but also make the dish visually inviting.

What to Serve with Crockpot Orange Chicken?

Enhance your dining experience by pairing this delightful dish with sides that complement its sweet and tangy flavors.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the sauce perfectly, making each bite satisfying and comforting.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas add a bright crunch, providing a nice contrast to the tender chicken. A vibrant array adds both flavor and nutrition!
• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad made with cucumbers, mint, and a splash of rice vinegar cuts through the richness of the orange sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that allows the delicious flavors to shine through while adding a healthy twist to your meal.
• Sesame Noodles: Savory sesame oil-coated noodles offer a delightful chewiness that complements the dish s texture and adds a delicious element to your plate.
• Mango Sorbet: For a refreshing dessert, this light and fruity option can cleanse the palate after the sweet and savory main course.
• Iced Green Tea: A mildly bitter drink, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the orange chicken, providing a cooling and pleasant finish to the meal.
• Egg Rolls: Crisp and filled with savory delights, egg rolls offer a delectable crunch that rounds out your Asian-inspired dinner experience.

Crockpot Orange Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders. Breasts are often budget-friendly, while tenders tend to cook faster and yield a more succulent result. No matter your choice, you ll end up with delicious, tender chicken!

How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it s completely cool before sealing to maintain freshness. When properly stored, you can enjoy this comforting dish again without any loss of flavor.

Can I freeze Crockpot Orange Chicken, and if so, how?
Definitely! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. To do so, let it cool completely, then transfer into a freezer-safe container. I recommend wrapping it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to lock in flavor and moisture. When you re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin at the end of cooking?
No worries! If your sauce isn t thick enough, simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help achieve that desired glossy thickness, making it even more enjoyable!

Are there any dietary considerations for Crockpot Orange Chicken?
Great thought! This dish can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, swap the reduced-sodium soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari or coconut aminos. Plus, you can replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version or shrimp for a seafood alternative, allowing everyone to delight in this comforting meal without compromise.