4 Ingredients Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken RECIPE
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is the ultimate answer to your busy weeknight dinner dilemma. With just five simple ingredients, this mouthwatering dish can be prepped in minutes, allowing you to set it in the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a savory, sweet, and garlicky delight. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with the perfect balance of brown sugar’s caramelized sweetness and garlic’s robust flavor. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to favorite for families everywhere.
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it over rice, with a side of roasted vegetables, or even shred the chicken to make tasty sandwiches. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight staple or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken delivers on all fronts.
By using a slow cooker, the chicken is cooked low and slow, allowing all the delicious flavors to meld together and the chicken to become exceptionally tender. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping โ just set it, forget it, and savor the tantalizing aroma that will fill your home as it cooks.
Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Chicken thighs โ The star of the dish, chicken thighs stay juicy and tender during slow cooking, absorbing all the rich flavors.
- Garlic, minced โ Adds a pungent, aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Kosher salt โ Enhances all the natural flavors, making each bite more savory.
- Black pepper โ Offers a hint of spice to balance the sweetness and add complexity to the flavor profile.
- Brown sugar, packed โ Caramelizes during cooking, creating a sweet glaze that perfectly complements the garlic.
How to Make Your Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker and season them evenly with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Give it a quick mix to ensure all the flavors blend well.
- Arrange the chicken pieces skin side up, making sure they are spread evenly across the slow cooker.
- Generously sprinkle the brown sugar over the chicken thighs, allowing it to coat the chicken and melt into a delicious glaze.
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours or, if youโre short on time, opt for the high setting and cook for 4 hours. Either way, youโre in for a treat!
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Choose chicken thighs: They are more flavorful and tender than chicken breasts, especially when slow-cooked.
- Donโt skip the garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key to getting that deep, aromatic flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar by half or balance it with a dash of soy sauce or apple cider vinegar.
- Check doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) for safety and perfect tenderness.
Variations to Try
If you want to change things up, consider adding a few tablespoons of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost. You could also mix in a bit of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. Alternatively, replace the chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftovers can be a lifesaver for busy days! To store, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. The flavors will deepen even more after sitting, making for an even more delicious second helping!
Enjoy the savory, sweet flavors of Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken and experience the joy of a delicious meal with minimal effort!
4 Ingredients Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe
A flavorful and effortless dish, Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken requires only five simple ingredients. It’s the perfect meal to prepare in the morning and enjoy a delightful dinner after a busy day.
- 5 chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker, adding the minced garlic, Kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the ingredients together to coat the chicken, then arrange the pieces with the skin side facing up.
- Evenly sprinkle the packed brown sugar over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on a low setting for 8 hours or choose the high setting for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.