If you’re craving a comforting yet healthy take on a classic favorite, look no further than this Healthy Orange Chicken Crockpot Recipe. This dish beautifully balances the zesty brightness of orange with tender, juicy chicken, all while being super easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you can have a delicious meal ready when you are. Let’s dive into the details!

Why It Works Every Time

This Healthy Orange Chicken Crockpot Recipe is foolproof for several reasons. First, cooking the chicken in a crockpot ensures that it remains incredibly moist and tender, absorbing all the wonderful flavors from the sauce. The combination of fresh orange juice, zest, and a hint of sweetness from coconut sugar creates a vibrant sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. Plus, with minimal prep time, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

What You’ll Gather

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast filets (about 3 large filets)
1 large egg, beaten with a fork
2/3 cup flour
1/4 cup canola oil (optional: coconut oil)
1 cup orange juice
2 teaspoons orange zest
1/3 cup coconut sugar (optional: molasses or maple syrup)
3 tablespoons lite soy sauce (optional: Tamari or coconut aminos)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional: Tabasco or red pepper flakes)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 green onions, thinly sliced (discard the white part)
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

Crockpot or slow cooker
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Knife and cutting board
Frying pan (if browning the chicken)

Cooking Healthy Orange Chicken Crockpot Recipe: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breast filets into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and soak up more flavor from the sauce.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of black pepper. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, and then dredge it in the flour mixture. This will create a light coating that helps to crisp up the chicken if you choose to pan-sear it before adding it to the crockpot.

Step 3: Optional Browning

In a frying pan over medium heat, add the canola or coconut oil. Once hot, add the dredged chicken pieces in batches, cooking until golden brown on all sides. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor. If you choose to skip this step, you can add the chicken directly to the crockpot.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, coconut sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, sriracha sauce (if using), and lemon juice. This fragrant mixture will be the base of your sauce.

Step 5: Add to the Crockpot

Place the cooked or raw chicken pieces into the crockpot. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken, ensuring all the pieces are well coated. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the top to help thicken the sauce as it cooks.

Step 6: Cook

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken will be done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to shred with a fork.

Step 7: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, give it a good stir to coat it in the sauce. Serve the Healthy Orange Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions for an added touch of freshness.

Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking to make this recipe even healthier or to accommodate dietary preferences, consider the following swaps:

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Replace canola oil with avocado oil for a healthier fat option.
Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor, but store-bought juice works in a pinch.
Substitute coconut sugar with a sugar-free alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.

Cook’s Notes

Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less coconut sugar depending on your taste preference.
If you like a little more heat, increase the amount of sriracha or add some red pepper flakes.
For meal prep, this dish stores well in the fridge and can be eaten throughout the week.
For an even thicker sauce, mix a bit of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How to Store & Reheat

To store the leftovers, let the Healthy Orange Chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Your Top Questions

Can I use thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. They will provide a richer flavor and remain moist during cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Allow the Healthy Orange Chicken to cool, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Prepare the sauce as directed and cook the tofu or tempeh in the same way you would the chicken.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add more sriracha, or even some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get cooking! This Healthy Orange Chicken Crockpot Recipe is not only straightforward but also a fulfilling way to bring a taste of Asian cuisine into your home without compromising on health. With its bright flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So grab your ingredients, set your crockpot, and enjoy a delicious meal that you can feel good about serving. Happy cooking!