EASY CROCK POT ORANGE CHICKEN Recipe
An Easy and Delicious Crock Pot Orange Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation, this Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken recipe is a must-try. With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The sweet and tangy flavor of orange marmalade combined with savory BBQ sauce creates a delightful sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken breasts. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: This recipe requires minimal prep work thanks to the crock pot, allowing you to set it and forget it.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of orange marmalade and BBQ sauce provides a unique and flavorful twist on traditional chicken dishes.
- Adaptable: You can serve this dish with rice, noodles, or even steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock Pot (slow cooker)
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- Knife (if you choose to cube the chicken)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup orange marmalade
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the crock pot and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
- Once cooked, drain the juices from the crock pot.
- Optionally, remove the chicken breasts, cut them into cubes, and transfer them back to the crock pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, orange marmalade, and soy sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over rice and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the sauce mixture overnight before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less orange marmalade to suit your taste.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Try using different types of BBQ sauce for varying flavors, such as a smoky or spicy variety.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and presentation.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 6g | Sugars: 32g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time if needed, as thighs may cook faster.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
What can I serve with this dish?
This orange chicken pairs well with steamed broccoli, mixed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
This Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal plan. With its savory and sweet blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us. Happy cooking!
