Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

INTRODUCTION

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that you can prepare with little effort. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want a tasty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet and savory flavors come together beautifully, making this chicken dish a favorite for families and guests alike. Whether you are serving it on a weeknight or at a weekend gathering, this slow cooker recipe will impress everyone at the table.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken. First, it is simple to make, requiring minimal prep time. You can toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time. Second, the flavors are incredible. The brown sugar adds sweetness while the garlic brings in a savory depth, making every bite satisfying. Third, it is versatile. You can serve it with rice, noodles, or even vegetables, allowing you to customize your meal based on what you have at home. Finally, it is a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup after your meal is complete.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Making Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. With just a few simple steps, you can create a wonderful meal that will have your family asking for seconds.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this dish, you will need the following equipment:

• A slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk or spoon for mixing
• Tongs or a spatula for serving

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup of chicken broth
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, chicken broth, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved.

2. Put Chicken in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure to spread them out evenly at the bottom.

3. Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Use a spoon to coat the chicken pieces evenly with the sauce.

4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

5. Optional Thickening: If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir well.

6. Finish and Serve: Once the chicken is done, shred it with two forks or serve it whole. Spoon the sauce over the chicken before serving.

HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

You can serve Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken in many ways. One popular choice is to serve it over a bed of rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce and makes a perfect base for the chicken. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side. For a fun twist, consider making wraps using tortillas or lettuce leaves and adding your favorite toppings. The sweetness of the chicken pairs well with crunchy veggies for a delightful meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store the Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for later. To freeze, place portioned chicken and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to label them with the date. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To enhance your meal, consider these serving suggestions:

• Garnish the chicken with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
• Serve with fluffy white or brown rice, egg noodles, or quinoa.
• Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a mixed vegetable medley for a balanced plate.
• For a fun kick, add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your servings.

VARIATIONS

You can customize this recipe in several ways to suit your taste. Here are a few variations:

• Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, onions, or carrots in the slow cooker for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add Citrus: Incorporate some fresh orange or lime juice to the sauce for a zesty flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They may cook a bit faster, so check them around the 3-hour mark if cooking on high.

2. Is it okay to leave the slow cooker unattended?
Yes, slow cookers are designed for cooking unattended. Just make sure to follow the cooking times carefully.

3. Can I thicken the sauce after cooking?
Yes, you can use a cornstarch slurry, as mentioned in the instructions, to thicken the sauce if you prefer a thicker consistency.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just pour everything into the slow cooker in the morning.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

To save time on busy days, consider these make-ahead tips:

• Prep the Ingredients: Chop the garlic and mix the sauce in advance. Keep it in the fridge overnight.
• Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavors, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
• Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and portion it out for several meals throughout the week or month.
• Freezing: As mentioned, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together. Thaw before cooking for convenience.

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is not just easy to make; it also delivers a fantastic flavor that everyone will enjoy. Whether it is a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this recipe makes meal planning simple and delicious. Give it a try and see how it becomes a staple in your cooking routine.

Print