- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 6 large orange slices, cut into thin rounds
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken:**
- Place your chicken pieces in a slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. **Add Seasoning Mixture:**
- Pour the seasoning mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours.
3. **Cooking Process:**
- Once cooked, the chicken should be tender and juicy. The sauce will have thickened slightly but not completely.
4. **Add Orange Slices (Optional):**
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the orange slices to the slow cooker. This adds a vibrant color and extra flavor.
5. **Thicken the Sauce:**
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 10 minutes of cooking to thicken it further.
6. **Serve and Garnish:**
- Remove the chicken and orange slices from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the orange chicken over rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables.
#### Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a dash of five-spice powder to the marinade.
- Use a slow cooker that has a lid with a secure seal for better results and less mess.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
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- Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
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- Easy Orange Chicken Recipe
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Enjoy your delicious and aromatic slow cooker orange chicken! This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner, especially during colder months or when you want something simple yet flavorful.