Introduction
This delightful orange chicken recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a perfect dish for dinner. The use of orange marmalade gives it a unique twist that is sure to impress your family and guests. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is both easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
¾ cup orange marmalade
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup rice vinegar
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4-5 hours and 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy your homemade orange chicken over a bed of rice or noodles, and don’t forget to add some garnishes like sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a flourish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned chicken and garlic to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, onion powder, and chili powder until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 7: Serve the Dish
Serve the orange chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with optional toppings like sliced green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
Chicken Selection
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.
Coating
Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with cornstarch for a crispy texture when searing.
Cooking Method
For best results, do not overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken.
Slow Cooker Options
You can adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s settings; always check for doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with rice or noodles and consider adding fresh herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Coating the Chicken
To achieve a crispy texture, coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This step helps create a crunchy exterior when cooked.
Browning the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet before adding the chicken. Browning the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side adds depth of flavor and improves the overall dish.
Using a Slow Cooker
Transferring the browned chicken to a slow cooker allows for low and slow cooking, which results in tender, juicy chicken. The flavors meld beautifully during this cooking process.
Mixing the Sauce
Whisk together the orange marmalade, soy sauce, rice vinegar, onion powder, and chili powder in a separate bowl. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the chicken.
Cooking Time
Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker settings. Cooking on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the finished orange chicken over rice or noodles. Garnish with optional toppings like sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may result in a slightly drier texture compared to thighs.
What can I substitute for orange marmalade?
You can substitute orange marmalade with other fruit preserves, such as apricot or peach, for a different flavor profile.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
What sides pair well with orange chicken?
Orange chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad.
Conclusion
The delicious orange chicken prepared with tender chicken thighs and a sweet and tangy sauce is a delightful dish that can easily become a family favorite. The slow cooking method ensures the flavors meld beautifully and the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Pairing the chicken with rice or noodles makes for a satisfying meal that is both simple and impressive.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Combine chicken with a mixture of pineapple juice, ketchup, and vinegar for a classic sweet and sour flavor profile.
Honey Garlic Chicken
Substitute orange marmalade with honey and add a touch of ginger for a savory-sweet combination.
Teriyaki Chicken
Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce and add sesame oil for a rich, Asian-inspired twist.
Citrus Glazed Salmon
Use orange marmalade with salmon fillets for a flavorful seafood alternative that retains the citrus theme.
Spicy Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
Incorporate bell peppers and broccoli with the chicken, adding a bit of sriracha for heat along with your sauce mixture.
Chicken Fajitas
Season the chicken with cumin and paprika, and serve in tortillas with fresh vegetables for a zesty variation.
Coconut Curry Chicken
Mix in coconut milk with your sauce ingredients and add curry paste for a creamy, aromatic dish.
