Tangy Orange Chicken Thighs Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups sliced fresh carrots1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained1 medium onion, chopped1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste1/2 cup orange juice2 garlic cloves, minced2 teaspoons dried basil1-1/2 teaspoons sugar1/2 teaspoon dried oregano1/2 teaspoon dried thyme1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed1/2 teaspoon pepper2 teaspoons grated orange zest, divided8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)2 tablespoons lemon juice4 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

Preparation

In a 3-qt. slow cooker, combine the first 12 ingredients. Stir in 1 teaspoon orange zest. Add chicken; spoon sauce over top. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until chicken is tender.

Remove to a serving platter. Stir lemon juice and remaining orange zest into sauce; pour over chicken. Sprinkle with bacon.