Description
Sweet, savory, and oh-so-tender, this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken is a flavor-packed family favorite! With just a handful of ingredients, this dish delivers mouthwatering results every time. Pair it with rice, veggies, or even mashed potatoes for the perfect meal.
The aroma alone will have everyone’s mouths watering! Set it, forget it, and come back to the easiest comfort food you’ll ever make.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
- Brown sugar (1 cup)
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced)
- Soy sauce (1/2 cup)
- Apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup)
- Ground ginger (1 teaspoon)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions (sliced for garnish)
Instructions
Start with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear beautifully. This small step makes a huge difference! Place the chicken in a bowl and season it with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavors in the final dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. This sweet and savory mixture will become the star of your dish. Stir everything together until you have a smooth and sticky sauce. Take a moment to inhale those aroma-filled scents; they will surely whet your appetite!
Transfer the seasoned chicken thighs to your slow cooker. Gently pour the delicious brown sugar garlic sauce over the chicken. Use a spatula to ensure every piece is generously coated. This is where the magic begins; the chicken will soak up all that sauce while cooking.
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4-5 hours. The slow cooking will allow the chicken to absorb all that flavorful sauce, making it tender enough to fall apart with a fork. Resist the urge to peak too often; the steam is your friend in this process!
Once the cooking time is up, check the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender. Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, then mix everything to coat in the sauce. Serve this marvelous dish over fluffy rice or a bed of greens for an extra freshness. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Notes
Cooking Time is Key
Cooking on low allows the flavors to marry beautifully and the chicken to remain juicy. If you’re pressed for time, it’s possible to cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, but we recommend the low and slow method for maximum taste.
Storage Recommendations
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently to maintain that delicious moisture. You can also freeze any leftovers; just ensure they’re sealed in an airtight container.
Customization Options
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables—like bell peppers or snap peas—into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. This adds color and a fresh crunch to the dish, making it even more exciting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours