Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, breasts tend to be leaner and may dry out more quickly. To prevent this, check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time and consider adding a bit of chicken broth for extra moisture.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can bake the chicken in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until fully cooked. Another option is to simmer it in a pan on low heat until the chicken is tender.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with two teaspoons of water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad can also complement the flavors nicely.

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Name: Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts); ½ cup brown sugar; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup soy sauce; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Description

This slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that requires minimal effort and just a few pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights, this tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, caramelized garlic sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
½ cup brown sugar
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup soy sauce
½ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning adhere better. This also helps achieve a nice texture when cooked.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir well to create a smooth marinade.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the brown sugar garlic sauce over it. Turn the chicken to ensure it is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily fall apart with a fork.
Optional Broiling for Caramelization: For a richer, caramelized finish, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet, spoon some sauce over it, and broil for 2-3 minutes until slightly crispy and golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon extra sauce over the chicken before serving. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
If using chicken breasts, check for doneness at the lower cooking time to avoid dryness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for up to two months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (on low)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 280
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg