Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: An Easy & Delicious Takeout Copycat Recipe

Craving the sweet and tangy flavors of your favorite takeout dish but want to skip the greasy, overly processed version? This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is the perfect solution! Made with tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky, citrusy glaze, this recipe is healthier, more flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good crockpot meal, this Slow Cooker Orange Chicken will quickly become a weeknight staple. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious dish—plus tips, variations, and serving ideas!

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Before we get into the recipe, here’s why this Slow Cooker Orange Chicken stands out:

✅ Healthier than takeout – No deep-frying, less oil, and no mystery ingredients.
✅ Minimal prep, maximum flavor – Just brown the chicken, dump everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
✅ Perfectly balanced sauce – Sweet from the orange marmalade, savory from soy sauce, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes.
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Great for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

Now, let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Main Ingredients

▢ 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders (cut into bite-sized pieces)
▢ ⅓ cup cornstarch (for coating the chicken)
▢ 4 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)

Orange Chicken Sauce

▢ 1 ½ cups orange marmalade (about a 16 oz jar)
▢ ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
▢ 2 tablespoons vinegar (rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar works)
▢ 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for depth of flavor)
▢ 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh ginger, minced)
▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▢ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
▢ 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)

Garnish & Serving

▢ Chopped scallions (for freshness)
▢ Sesame seeds (extra for topping)
▢ Steamed white or brown rice (for serving)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces.

2. Toss in cornstarch – Place the chicken in a shallow dish and coat evenly with cornstarch. This helps thicken the sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Sear the chicken in batches until lightly browned (about 1-2 minutes per side). Don’t cook it all the way through—this step is just for texture.

3. Transfer to slow cooker – Place the browned chicken in a 6-quart crockpot.

Step 3: Make the Orange Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Orange marmalade

• Soy sauce

• Vinegar

• Sesame oil

• Ground ginger

• Minced garlic

• Red pepper flakes

• Sesame seeds

Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker and stir well.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours.

2. Stir halfway to prevent sticking or burning.

3. Check for doneness – The chicken should be tender, and the sauce thick and glossy.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and chopped scallions.

• Serve over steamed rice with a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies.

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 The Secret to Perfect Slow Cooker Orange Chicken – Tips & Techniques

Making Slow Cooker Orange Chicken seems simple, but a few key techniques can take it from good to restaurant-quality amazing. Whether you’re a slow cooker pro or a beginner, these tips will ensure your dish turns out flavorful, tender, and perfectly saucy every time.

1. Choosing the Right Chicken

The best cuts for Slow Cooker Orange Chicken are:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean and easy to cut into even pieces.

• Chicken tenders – Naturally tender and quick-cooking.

• Boneless thighs – More flavorful and juicier, but slightly higher in fat.

Pro Tip: If using thighs, trim excess fat to prevent the sauce from becoming greasy.

2. The Cornstarch Coating – Why It Matters

Coating the chicken in cornstarch before browning:

• Creates a light crust that helps thicken the sauce.

• Prevents the chicken from drying out.

• Gives a slightly crispy texture (even after slow cooking).

Alternative: For a gluten-free version, use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.

3. Browning = Big Flavor

Don’t skip searing the chicken! Browning:

• Locks in juices.

• Adds depth with caramelization.

• Prevents a “boiled” texture.

How to brown properly:

• Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.

• Use medium-high heat for a quick sear (1-2 minutes per side).

4. The Perfect Sauce Balance

The sauce should be sweet, tangy, savory, and slightly spicy. Adjust to taste:

• Too sweet? Add a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar.

• Not tangy enough? A squeeze of fresh orange juice brightens it up.

• Need more heat? Extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

5. Slow Cooking Time & Temperature

• Low (2-3 hours): Best for tender chicken.

• High (1-2 hours): Faster, but check earlier to avoid overcooking.

Warning: Overcooking can make chicken dry. Check at the earliest time.

6. Thickening the Sauce (If Needed)

If the sauce is too thin:

• Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water, stir into the slow cooker, and cook 15 more minutes.

• Remove the lid and let it simmer on HIGH for 10-15 minutes to reduce.

7. Adding Vegetables

For a complete meal, toss in:

• Bell peppers (add at the start).

• Broccoli or snap peas (add in the last 30 minutes to stay crisp).

Final Pro Tip: Let the dish rest 10 minutes before serving—the sauce thickens slightly as it cools.

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Healthier Swaps & Dietary Modifications

Love Slow Cooker Orange Chicken but want to make it healthier or adapt it to dietary needs? Here’s how to tweak the recipe without sacrificing flavor.

1. Lower-Sugar Options

Traditional orange marmalade is high in sugar. Try these swaps:

• Sugar-free marmalade (available in some grocery stores).

• Homemade glaze: Mix orange zest + fresh juice + honey or maple syrup (reduced amount).

• Monk fruit sweetener – A zero-calorie alternative.

Sugar-Conscious Tip: Reduce marmalade to 1 cup and add ½ cup chicken broth for balance.

2. Gluten-Free Adaptation

• Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

• Check cornstarch – Some brands may have cross-contamination; use arrowroot powder if needed.

3. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Version

• Replace cornstarch with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for coating.

• Use a sugar-free orange sauce (orange extract + sweetener + butter).

• Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.

4. Higher-Protein Adjustments

• Add diced tofu or shrimp for extra protein.

• Stir in chickpeas for a plant-based boost.

5. Reducing Sodium

• Use low-sodium soy sauce.

• Skip added salt (the soy sauce provides enough).

• Balance with acidity (extra vinegar or citrus).

6. Dairy-Free & Whole30 Compliance

• Already dairy-free! Just ensure soy sauce is compliant (or use coconut aminos).

7. Allergy-Friendly Swaps

• Nut-free – Stick to cornstarch for coating.

• Sesame-free – Omit sesame oil/seeds; use avocado oil instead.

Final Thought: With these tweaks, everyone can enjoy this dish—no matter their dietary preferences!

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 Serving Ideas & Leftover Makeovers

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is delicious on its own, but creative serving ideas and leftover transformations can keep meals exciting all week!

1. Best Ways to Serve

• Classic Pairing: Steamed jasmine rice + steamed broccoli.

• Bowl Style: Base of quinoa, topped with chicken, shredded cabbage, and avocado.

• Lettuce Wraps: Butter lettuce cups with chicken, diced cucumbers, and a drizzle of sauce.

• Meal Prep Containers: Divide into portions with rice and veggies for easy lunches.

2. Leftover Reinventions

Turn leftovers into brand-new meals with these ideas:

• Orange Chicken Tacos – Warm tortillas, slaw, and a squeeze of lime.

• Stir-Fried Noodles – Toss with cooked lo mein noodles and extra veggies.

• Pizza Topping – Use on flatbread with mozzarella and green onions.

• Egg Roll Filling – Wrap in egg roll wrappers and air-fry until crispy.

3. Freezing & Reheating Tips

• Freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

• Reheat:

  • Stovetop – Add a splash of water to loosen sauce.

  • Microwave – Cover and heat in 30-second intervals.

4. Party & Potluck Ideas

• Sliders – Mini buns with chicken and pickled veggies.

• Skewers – Thread chicken onto sticks for easy appetizers.

• Dip – Shred chicken, mix with cream cheese, and serve with crackers.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

✔ Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness – While breasts work great, thighs stay even more tender.
✔ Adjust spice level – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
✔ Add veggies – Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.
✔ Don’t skip browning – This step adds depth of flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
✔ Thicken the sauce (if needed) – If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir in during the last 30 minutes.

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Variations & Substitutions

Alternative Proteins

• Shrimp or tofu – Swap chicken for shrimp (add in the last 30 minutes) or crispy tofu.

Sauce Modifications

• Honey instead of marmalade – If you don’t have marmalade, use honey + orange zest.

• Less sweet – Reduce marmalade and add a splash of orange juice.

Low-Carb/Keto Option

• Use sugar-free orange marmalade and replace cornstarch with almond flour for coating.

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Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken pairs perfectly with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice

• Cauliflower rice (for low-carb)

• Stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas)

• Egg rolls or potstickers (for a full takeout experience)

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Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (sauce may separate slightly—just stir well when reheating).

• Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the Sauté function to brown the chicken, then pressure cook on High for 5 minutes with a quick release.

Can I skip the cornstarch?

The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, but you can use arrowroot powder or omit it (the sauce will be thinner).

Is this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

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Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is the ultimate easy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to takeout. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with none of the guilt.