Orange Marmalade Chicken Crockpot Recipe: Sticky, Tangy, and Irresistible
Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of tender chicken infused with a sweet, tangy orange glaze.
This slow-cooked orange marmalade chicken is a delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal bursting with flavor and simplicity.
The beauty of using a crockpot is that it allows you to set and forget it, making dinner time a breeze. The chicken becomes incredibly juicy and falls right off the bone, coated in a rich marmalade sauce that improves as it cooks. Serve it over rice or with a side of vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Whether you’re a fan of citrus flavors or just looking for an easy recipe to add to your dinner rotation, this orange marmalade chicken will surely satisfy your cravings.
Aromatic Appeal of Slow Cooking
There’s something special about returning home to the enticing smells wafting from the kitchen, especially when it involves slow-cooked meals. The aroma of chicken bathed in a sweet and tangy orange glaze fills the air, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience.
Using a crockpot transforms the cooking process into a hassle-free affair. Set it up, and let the heat work its magic over several hours. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, absorbing the flavors of the orange marmalade and spices, making it an easy option for busy nights.
Flavorful Ingredients that Shine
At the heart of this dish are simple yet flavorful ingredients. Chicken thighs or breasts serve as the protein base, while a combination of orange marmalade, soy sauce, and garlic creates a sauce that balances sweetness with savory elements.
Including optional grated ginger adds a subtle warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the dish. This careful selection of components ensures that each bite delivers a burst of taste, making the meal both satisfying and enjoyable.
Cooking Process Made Simple
The preparation for this dish is straightforward, allowing for a seamless cooking experience. After placing the chicken in the crockpot, mixing up the sauce is a quick task that requires minimal effort.
Once the sauce is poured over the chicken, all that’s left is to cover and let it cook. The long cooking time ensures that the chicken not only cooks thoroughly but becomes infused with the luscious sauce, making the effort feel truly rewarding.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken and mix it back into the sauce for an even flavor distribution. Serving this dish over fluffy white rice creates a satisfying base that beautifully soaks up the sticky sauce.
To elevate the presentation and add fresh elements, garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds makes for an inviting plate. Adding slices of orange enhances the visual appeal and provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Pairing with Colorful Sides
This slow-cooked orange marmalade chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside colorful vegetables, which not only complement the dish but also add nutritional value. Steamed broccoli, sautéed bell peppers, or a fresh salad can create a well-rounded meal.
The vibrant colors of the vegetables against the backdrop of the sticky chicken and rice make for a feast for the eyes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
A Meal for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a friend gathering, this dish fits right in. The ease of preparation means you can enjoy the company around you more than being tied to the kitchen.
The combination of flavors, textures, and vibrant colors ensures that this meal will be a memorable addition to your recipe repertoire. It invites everyone to savor each bite and enjoy a delightful culinary experience.
Deliciously Easy Crockpot Orange Marmalade Chicken
This orange marmalade chicken recipe features succulent chicken thighs or breasts, slow-cooked in a savory-sweet sauce made from orange marmalade, soy sauce, and garlic. The result is a luscious dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and umami, making every bite a delight.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
- Chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let it cook uncovered to thicken.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce. Serve over rice or with your favorite side dishes, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
