Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is the perfect recipe for busy days when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. The rich, savory flavor of garlic combined with the sweetness of brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, using the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, leaving you time to focus on other tasks. This dish is ideal for a cozy family dinner or even for meal prepping.
If you love easy and flavorful chicken recipes, be sure to check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings or Honey Balsamic Chicken for more inspiration!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
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Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
Description
Try this easy Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken for a tender, flavorful dinner with sweet brown sugar and savory garlic. Perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
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5 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in)
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2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
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1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
Instructions
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Prep the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper on both sides. -
Make the Garlic Brown Sugar Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and brown sugar. Stir until the brown sugar is well-coated and slightly softened. -
Pour the Sauce Over Chicken:
Spoon the garlic and brown sugar mixture evenly over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. -
Cook in Slow Cooker:
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, serve immediately with your favorite sides. The sauce can be spooned over the chicken for added flavor.
Notes
Bone-In vs. Boneless: This recipe works best with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they stay moist and tender. You can use boneless thighs, but they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Variations: If you like a touch of heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture for a sweet and spicy kick.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Advanced Techniques for Perfecting Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
1. Browning the Chicken Before Cooking
For a deeper flavor, brown the chicken thighs in a hot skillet with a little oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This will give the chicken a crispy, golden skin and add complexity to the dish.
2. Using Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs
If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them for thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and may dry out more easily in the slow cooker. To keep them juicy, reduce the cooking time and check for doneness sooner.
3. Adding Vegetables to the Slow Cooker
For a one-pot meal, you can add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or onions into the slow cooker. They’ll cook with the chicken, absorbing the delicious flavors of the brown sugar garlic sauce.
4. Boosting the Flavor with Soy Sauce
For a more umami-rich sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of soy sauce to the garlic and brown sugar mixture. It enhances the savory flavors and complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.
5. Thickening the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Simmer on medium heat until it reduces and thickens. Then, pour the sauce back over the chicken before serving.
See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
1. Storing Leftovers in the Fridge
Leftover Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Freezing for Later Use
This chicken freezes very well. After cooking, let the chicken cool down, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating Without Drying Out
When reheating, add a little broth or water to the chicken and sauce to keep it from drying out. Heat slowly over low heat to maintain moisture.
4. Extending Shelf Life by Removing the Skin
If you prefer to extend the shelf life of your leftovers, remove the skin from the chicken after cooking. The skin can become soggy in the fridge, so removing it helps maintain the quality of the chicken.
5. Freezing the Sauce Separately
If you have extra sauce, you can freeze it separately in small portions. This way, you can use the sauce for other dishes later on, such as grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
1. Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t require any flour or breading. However, be sure to check your soy sauce or other condiments for gluten if you’re adding them for extra flavor.
2. Low-Sugar Version
If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol instead of brown sugar. This can still provide the sweet flavor without the extra calories.
3. Vegan Option (Tofu or Tempeh)
To make a vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Both can be slow-cooked, absorbing the garlic and brown sugar flavors. Be sure to press the tofu before cooking to remove excess moisture.
4. Dairy-Free Adaptation
This recipe is already dairy-free, but if you’re pairing it with sides or sauces, ensure that any additions are also free from dairy for a fully dairy-free meal.
5. Paleo-Friendly
To make this recipe paleo-friendly, swap the brown sugar with coconut sugar. It’s a natural alternative that fits into the paleo diet while still giving you that sweet flavor.
FAQs About the Recipe
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but they will cook faster. Reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking, and keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but chicken breasts tend to be drier in the slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time and monitor the chicken closely to prevent it from drying out.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double this recipe. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken. If you do double it, you may need to add a little extra cooking time.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables. A side salad can also balance the sweetness of the chicken.
5. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but be cautious not to overcook the chicken, as slow cooking on high can sometimes cause the chicken to dry out.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is an easy, yet delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want to enjoy a flavorful dinner without a lot of effort. The combination of sweet brown sugar and savory garlic creates a rich sauce that soaks into the chicken, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, so all you need to do is set it and forget it until dinnertime.
Whether you’re making it for your family or prepping it ahead for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The recipe is easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs and can be served with a variety of sides to complement the flavors. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
With its simplicity and incredible taste, Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for busy weeknights or family meals. Try it out, and enjoy the sweet, savory goodness in every bite!