The slow cooker has become an indispensable tool in modern kitchens, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor. One of my all-time favorite slow cooker recipes is Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken. This dish combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the robust flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and ginger, creating a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and exciting.
The first time I made this dish was for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. The chicken was incredibly tender, and the glaze was perfectly sticky and flavorful. Since then, it has become a staple in our household, especially on busy weekdays when I need to prepare something delicious with minimal effort.
Ingredients
¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
7 cloves minced garlic
1 tablespoon finely grated ginger
1 teaspoon red chili flakes
3 tablespoons soy sauce
½ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon butter
½ cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 pounds chicken breast, boneless and skinless
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Mixture
Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the following ingredients: ¾ cup brown sugar, ½ cup apple cider vinegar, 7 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of finely grated ginger, 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and 1 tablespoon of butter.
These ingredients will create a rich, flavorful base that will infuse the chicken with a delightful sweet and savory taste.
Mix the Ingredients: Stir the ingredients together until well combined. The brown sugar should dissolve into the liquid, creating a smooth mixture.
Step 2: Make the Cornstarch Slurry
Prepare the Slurry: In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of water and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Stir until there are no lumps. This slurry will help thicken the sauce as the chicken cooks.
Add the Slurry: Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and mix well to ensure it is evenly distributed. This will help create a nice, thick glaze for the chicken.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Prepare the Chicken: Take 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and trim any excess fat. You can also cut the chicken into smaller pieces if you prefer, but whole breasts work just as well.
Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, making sure to coat each side with the brown sugar mixture. This ensures that every bite of chicken will be packed with flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the sauce.
Check for Doneness: After 4 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
Thicken the Glaze: For a thicker, stickier glaze, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a serving dish. Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a small sauce pot.
Reduce the Sauce: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Allow it to reduce for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. This will intensify the flavors and create a beautifully glossy glaze.
Finish the Dish: Pour the reduced sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over the chicken. The sesame seeds add a nice nutty flavor and a bit of texture to the dish.
Serve: Serve the Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken over a bed of rice or noodles. The rice or noodles will soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Variations and Substitutions
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to suit your spice preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
Protein Options: This recipe works well with other proteins such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetable Additions: Add some vegetables to the slow cooker for a complete meal. Bell peppers, snap peas, or baby carrots would complement the flavors nicely.
Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions can be sprinkled on top for added freshness and color.
Sweetness Variation: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar to ½ cup.
Summary
This Slow Cooker Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, while the combination of garlic, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a rich, flavorful sauce that is simply irresistible.
The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results, and watch as this dish becomes a staple in your meal rotation.
