Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

You might have noticed, I miss Chinese food…

Somebody mentioned Panda Express Orange Chicken, and then I couldn’t think of anything else.

So, I made this. Go do it. You’ll thank me.

Slow Cooker Orange Chicken

http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2009/09/slow-cooker-orange-chicken-recipe.html

(As usual, I copied and pasted from her website)

-1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken, cut in 2-inch chunks
-1/2 cup flour (I used Pamela's Baking Mix)
-olive oil, for browning the chicken
-1 tablespoon kosher salt (or ½ tablespoon table salt)
-6 ounces (1/2 can) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed (I'd opt for little-to-no pulp. The pulp can taste a bit bitter when cooked)
-3 tablespoons brown sugar
-1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
-3 tablespoons ketchup

The Directions.

Use a 4 quart slow cooker for best results. Dredge the chicken pieces with the flour, and shake off the excess. Go ahead and throw away any remaining flour, we won't need it. Heat olive oil in a large skillet on the stove and brown the chicken on all sides. There is no need to fully cook it, just sear it enough for the flour to stick and get a nice coating.

Plop the chicken pieces into your slow cooker. In a small mixing bowl, combine the orange juice concentrate, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and ketchup. Taste. If you'd like the chicken to be a bit sweeter, add a touch more sugar. Pour sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, and toss gingerly to coat.

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4. Serve over white or brown rice.

What did I think?

This is amazing. I must have a bigger crock pot than 4 quarts, because both times I’ve made this, it started to burn on the sides. So, I’d recommend cooking it on low and checking it pretty soon. However, it’s still delicious, and still something I crave. It’s SO good. I actually took pictures this time! However, I started eating immediately after plating, so it’s not a pretty picture. But you’ll get the idea. Make this, if you’re gluten free, or if you’re just looking for a healthier alternative to deep fried Chinese food.

It’s amazing!

Have a great day!