Crispy, caramelized edges giving way to succulent, fall-apart chicken – that’s the promise of this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken. The magic lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and absorb all the sweet and savory flavors of the sauce. The brown sugar creates a beautiful glaze, while the garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar work together to provide a complex and balanced taste.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a fragrant and flavorful dinner. Serve it over rice for a complete and comforting meal that the whole family will love.

Why you’ll love this Cozy Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken with Slow Cooker Chicken

Minimal effort, maximum flavor! This recipe requires just 10 minutes of prep time.
The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tender chicken.
The sweet and savory brown sugar garlic sauce is incredibly delicious and versatile.
This slow cooker chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
It’s an affordable meal option that uses readily available ingredients.
Enjoy a healthy and satisfying main course with this incredibly simple chicken recipe.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Cozy Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
Cooked rice, for serving (optional)
Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Slow cooker chicken makes every moment feel indulgent. Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs, but may require slightly shorter cooking time. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar will work in a pinch.

How to make Cozy Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in the slow cooker. Pour the brown sugar garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Set aside.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker with the remaining sauce. Stir well.

Chef’s Tip: Make sure the cornstarch slurry is smooth before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid lumps in the sauce.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Cover and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it evenly with the thickened sauce.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken over cooked rice, quinoa, or your favorite noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the chicken. It should be easily shredded with a fork, but not dry.
For a richer flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. You can find inspiration and delicious recipes for dessert at Cook Reel, perfect to complete your meal!

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken is delicious served over rice, quinoa, or noodles. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans. For a complete meal, add a side salad or some crusty bread.

Consider serving this with some of our zesty street corn steak rice bowls for a unique and delicious pairing!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is it spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use other cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or a whole chicken. However, the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the cut of chicken used.

Conclusion

This Cozy Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe is a winner for its ease of preparation and incredible flavor. The combination of sweet and savory, coupled with the fall-apart tenderness of the chicken, makes it a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a comforting and delicious dish, this slow cooker chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Slow Cooker Chicken Delicious Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe