There’s something magical about coming home to the irresistible aroma of Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken wafting through the house.
This dish combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the savory kick of garlic, creating a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredient List
Here’s what I need to make my Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
- Chicken Thighs: 2 pounds bone-in, skinless for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup packed for that sweet caramelization.
- Soy Sauce: 1/2 cup low sodium to enhance the umami flavor.
- Garlic: 4 cloves minced gives a robust aroma and taste.
- Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon for a subtle warmth.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground adds a kick.
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons for thickening the sauce at the end.
- Water: 1/4 cup to help create a juicy base.
With these ingredients on hand, I’m ready to create a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken
Begin by placing the 2 pounds of bone-in, skinless chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Ensure they are evenly spread out for even cooking.
- Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture until the brown sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the Sauce to Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece is well coated to absorb those delicious flavors.
- Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer you cook, the more tender the chicken will become, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cover and continue cooking until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
- Serve
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side. Pair with steamed rice or vegetables to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Chicken Options: While I prefer using bone-in skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts. Cooking time may vary slightly with different cuts; boneless options typically require less cooking time.
- Sweetness Level: If you want a sweeter sauce, feel free to increase the amount of brown sugar to 1 and 1/2 cups. For a less sweet version, reduce it to 3/4 cup. The flavor balance is all about personal preference.
- Adding Vegetables: I love to add vegetables for extra nutritional value and flavor. Try adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the slow cooker during the last 2 hours of cooking to keep them tender yet crisp.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce before cooking can elevate the dish with a warm kick.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but I also enjoy serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. Additionally, a side of sautéed green beans or a refreshing cucumber salad complements the meal well.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: If you want to prepare this dish in advance, I recommend freezing the cooked chicken in portions. Thaw and reheat thoroughly when ready to enjoy.
By incorporating these variations and notes, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs while keeping the essence of the delicious Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken intact.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken with sides that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Steamed Rice
Steamed white rice is my go-to choice. The fluffy grains absorb the rich sauce perfectly, making each bite a flavorful experience. I often use jasmine or basmati rice for their fragrance.
Vegetables
Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a bright freshness to the meal. Their slight crunch contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. I usually drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper before roasting them in the oven.
Quinoa
For a nutty twist, I often pair the chicken with quinoa. It’s nutritious and has a lovely texture that complements the dish. I cook it in chicken broth for added flavor.
Cauliflower Rice
For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice is excellent. It soaks up the sauce well and adds a lightness to the meal. I sauté it briefly with some garlic for extra taste.
Salad
A simple green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances the dish nicely. The crisp greens and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Sandwiches
Leftover chicken tastes amazing in sandwiches the next day. I shred the chicken and pile it onto a toasted bun with some crunchy coleslaw for a quick lunch.
These suggestions not only enhance the chicken’s flavor but also allow for some creativity in the kitchen. I always enjoy experimenting with different pairings.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for my Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken.
This information will give you a clearer idea of what to expect from each serving and help you make informed choices.
Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
---|---|
Calories | 405 |
Total Fat | 11 g |
Saturated Fat | 2 g |
Cholesterol | 150 mg |
Sodium | 635 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 38 g |
Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
Sugars | 34 g |
Protein | 36 g |
Key Nutritional Highlights
- Calories: Each serving is around 405 calories which makes it a hearty meal without being too heavy.
- Protein: With 36 grams of protein, this dish is great for muscle repair and satiety.
- Sugars: The dish includes 34 grams of sugars primarily from brown sugar; feel free to adjust to your taste preference.
- Sodium: While the low sodium soy sauce helps keep this dish in check, it still contains 635 mg of sodium per serving.
Customization for Dietary Needs
If you’re looking to lower the sugar content, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar or substituting with a sugar alternative.
For those watching their sodium intake, opt for a sodium-free soy sauce.
Adding more vegetables can also enhance the fiber content, making it even more nutritious.
Conclusion
I can’t recommend Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken enough for your next meal.
It’s a dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a way that’s sure to impress.
The ease of preparation makes it a go-to for busy nights or special gatherings.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sweetness to match your taste.
Whether you’re enjoying it with rice or incorporating leftovers into a sandwich, this dish is versatile and satisfying. I hope you give it a try and savor every bite!