Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken! It’s one of those cozy, comforting dishes that has quickly become a staple in our house. I remember the first time I made it—our friends were coming over for dinner, and I wanted something easy but super tasty. I tossed everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, the entire house was filled with the most delicious, mouth-watering smell. It’s seriously hard to resist!
The sweetness from the brown sugar mixed with the savory garlic creates such a perfect balance. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, practically falling apart as you serve it. It’s not just a hit with adults; even our picky cat—I mean, our guests—couldn’t get enough! Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want that homemade goodness without the hassle. If you’re looking for something to pair it with, I’d recommend some fluffy rice or roasted veggies. Trust me, you won’t regret trying this one!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Sweet and savory blend from brown sugar and soy sauce
- Easy preparation—just mix and let the slow cooker do the work!
- Tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
- Option to thicken the sauce for a more decadent finish
- Perfectly pairs with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal
- Can easily be customized with additional spices or vegetables
This recipe’s marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor over slow cooking, making it a delightful dish for any night of the week!
How to Make Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a total lifesaver! It’s not only easy to whip up, but it also comes out tender, flavorful, and just oh-so-sweet. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen!
What You’ll Need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts) – I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine if that’s what you have!
- Brown sugar – It adds a lovely caramel sweetness. I recommend using light brown sugar for a balanced flavor.
- Soy sauce – Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. I like Kikkoman for its rich flavor!
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick. You can’t go wrong with garlic!
- Ground ginger – Adds a slight warmth; it’s always good to have some on hand.
- Cornstarch – This is optional, but it’s great for thickening the sauce if you want it sauce to cling to everything!
- Fresh parsley – A sprinkle on top makes everything pop and adds a fresh flavor.
The Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Whisk until well blended—a perfect marinade!
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the marinade evenly over them. Make sure all the chicken is nicely coated.
- Cover the slow cooker, and you’re done for a bit! Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once fully cooked, carefully take the chicken out and place it on a serving plate. Don’t worry, it will be super tender!
- Drizzle the delicious sauce over the chicken and add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for that bright touch.
- Serve warm, either over rice or with steamed veggies, so every bite is bursting with that tasty sauce. Enjoy!
This dish brings a lovely aroma to your home and tastes absolutely fantastic. Your family and friends won’t believe how easy it was to make!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful, chicken breasts can be used as well. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts may dry out faster, so you might want to check for doneness a little earlier in the cooking time. A good internal temperature to aim for is 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No problem! If you’re out of soy sauce or looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with tamari or coconut aminos. You can also make a quick homemade soy sauce substitute using a mixture of balsamic vinegar, water, and a pinch of salt.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken the night before. Just store it in the fridge overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the chicken to absorb more flavor. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before placing it into the slow cooker.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
