Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken: 8 Easy Steps to Bliss

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If there’s one recipe that always saves the day in my kitchen, it’s Slow Cooker Orange Chicken. You know those days when everyone’s hungry, your to-do list is laughing at you, and the idea of standing over a stove feels like way too much? Yep—this recipe was made for those days.

This slow cooker orange chicken is sweet, savory, a little sticky, and completely comforting. It’s the kind of meal that makes your house smell like you’ve been cooking all day… even though your slow cooker did all the heavy lifting. That’s my favorite kind of magic

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Let me count the ways, friend:

Minimal effort, big flavor – A quick stovetop sear, then it’s hands-off.
Family-friendly – Sweet orange flavor with just a hint of heat.
Perfect for busy nights – Set it, forget it, and come back to dinner done.
Better than takeout – No mystery ingredients, no soggy chicken.
Great leftovers – Hello, easy lunch tomorrow.

If you love cozy meals that don’t demand your full attention, this slow cooker orange chicken is about to become a regular on your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this dish to life—nothing fancy, just pantry staples doing what they do best:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into bite-size pieces
⅓ cup cornstarch
4 tablespoons olive oil
1½ cups orange marmalade (about one 16-oz jar)
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ground ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
Scallions, for garnish

That orange marmalade might surprise you, but trust me—it’s the secret to that glossy, takeout-style sauce without extra sugar or fuss.

How to Make This Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Don’t worry—this is simple, forgiving, and totally doable even on a chaotic weekday.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut your chicken into roughly 1-inch pieces. No need to be perfect—this isn’t a baking show.

Step 2: Coat It

Add the cornstarch to a shallow dish. Toss the chicken pieces until they’re evenly coated. This step helps give the sauce that thick, clingy texture we all love.

Step 3: Lightly Brown

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and lightly brown it on each side. You’re not cooking it through—just giving it a little color and flavor.

Step 4: Into the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned chicken to the basin of a 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

Orange marmalade
Soy sauce
Vinegar
Sesame oil
Ginger
Garlic
Red pepper flakes
Sesame seeds

This sauce smells amazing already—and it only gets better.

Step 6: Combine

Pour the sauce over the chicken and give everything a gentle stir so every piece is coated.

Step 7: Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours. Stir halfway through to make sure nothing sticks or burns.

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken cooking in a crockpot with sticky orange sauce — Slow Cooker Orange Chicken simmering in a rich, sticky orange sauce

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with chopped scallions and extra sesame seeds. Serve your slow cooker orange chicken over warm rice and enjoy that “I’ve got my life together” feeling.

Easy Slow Cooker Orange Chicken served over rice with sesame seeds and scallions — Slow Cooker Orange Chicken served over fluffy rice with a glossy orange sauce

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

Don’t skip the browning step – It adds flavor and helps the chicken hold its shape.
Too thick? Add a splash of water or chicken broth and stir.
Too thin? Let it cook uncovered for the last 15–20 minutes.
Like more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Using chicken thighs? Totally fine—they’ll be even juicier.

And remember: if the sauce looks extra thick, that’s not a problem—that’s comfort waiting to happen

A Little Story From My Kitchen

I first made this slow cooker orange chicken during one of those weeks—school deadlines, work deadlines, and zero energy left for dinner creativity. I needed something easy, comforting, and guaranteed to make everyone happy.

When my family asked, “Is this takeout?” I knew it was a keeper. Ever since then, this recipe has been my secret weapon on busy nights when I still want a meal that feels special.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken?

I recommend thawing it first. Frozen chicken releases extra liquid, which can thin the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Make it the night before and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I serve with it besides rice?

Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or even quinoa work great with slow cooker orange chicken.

One Last Thing Before You Go

If you’re craving a meal that’s warm, comforting, and ridiculously easy, Slow Cooker Orange Chicken is here for you. It’s sweet, savory, and proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious.

This is the kind of recipe that makes life feel a little easier—and a lot tastier. And honestly? That’s exactly what we all need more of.

Keep Dinner Easy and Delicious All Week Long

If this Slow Cooker Orange Chicken hit the spot, here are a few more cozy, flavor-packed ideas to keep your meal plan feeling fresh without adding stress. These recipes lean into the same easy, comforting vibes—perfect for busy nights when you want something homemade and satisfying:

If you loved the sweet-and-savory balance here, you’ll definitely enjoy Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken, another takeout-style favorite that’s simple, sticky, and family-approved.
Craving something with a little more kick? Crockpot Kung Pao Chicken brings bold flavors and just the right amount of heat while still being slow-cooker friendly.
For nights when you want pure comfort in a bowl, Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice is a classic, cozy option that pairs beautifully with busy schedules.
And if you’re in the mood for another easy Asian-inspired dinner, Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is a lifesaver when you want big flavor with almost zero prep.
Curious to see a slightly different take on this same favorite? This version of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken offers another delicious perspective that’s fun to compare and just as comforting.

These are the kinds of recipes that make weeknight cooking feel calm, doable, and honestly… kind of comforting.