Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Delicious, tender, and juicy chicken cooked in a slow cooker with the sweet and savory combination of brown sugar and garlic. This is a perfect dish for those who want an easy and flavorful meal without the hassle. The slow cooker does all the work for you, slowly infusing the chicken with the flavors of brown sugar and garlic. Great for family dinners, weekend meals, or special occasions.

Photos of Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Most of these ingredients are staples in most kitchens. The chicken thighs can be found in the meat aisle of any grocery store. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts instead, but keep in mind that they might cook a little faster. As for the brown sugar, it's usually located in the baking section. If you don't have kosher salt, you can use regular table salt. Remember, a little goes a long way.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Chicken thighs: The main ingredient of the dish. Thighs are used due to their tenderness and flavor.

Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor to the chicken.

Kosher salt: Used to enhance the flavor of the chicken and garlic.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat to balance out the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Brown sugar: Brings a touch of sweetness and helps to create a delicious glaze on the chicken.

One reader, Charmaine Tharp says:

This slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken recipe is a game-changer! The chicken comes out so tender and flavorful. The combination of garlic and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. It's incredibly easy to make and always a hit with my family. Highly recommend trying it out!

Charmaine Tharp

Cooking Techniques for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

How to prepare the slow cooker: Place the slow cooker on a flat, stable surface and ensure it is clean and dry before use.

How to season the chicken: Combine the garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl, then rub the mixture evenly over the chicken thighs to season them.

How to layer the chicken in the slow cooker: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not stacked on top of each other.

How to add the brown sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the seasoned chicken thighs, ensuring it is spread out to cover the surface of the chicken.

How to cook the chicken: Set the slow cooker to the desired cooking setting (low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours) and allow the chicken to cook until tender and fully cooked through.

How To Make Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Whip up a sweet-savory dinner meal with this recipe for slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken! Everything’s cooked in the slow cooker for easy cooking.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5chicken thighs
2tbspgarlicminced
½tspkosher salt
¼tspblack pepper
⅓cupbrown sugarpacked

Instructions

Add the chicken, salt, pepper and garlic to the slow cooker.
Mix it up then flip the chicken skin side up.
Sprinkle on the brown sugar.
Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 989.88kcal
Fat: 32.17g
Saturated Fat: 8.77g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.42g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.73g
Carbohydrates: 145.69g
Fiber: 0.81g
Sugar: 140.73g
Protein: 32.58g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 800.66mg
Calcium: 153.23mg
Potassium: 638.87mg
Iron: 2.69mg
Vitamin A: 45.17µg
Vitamin C: 1.06mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

To ensure that the chicken thighs are evenly seasoned and coated with the garlic and brown sugar, it's best to first mix them in a separate bowl before placing them in the slow cooker. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, flipping the chicken skin side up before cooking will help the skin to become crispy, adding a delightful texture to your meal.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Slow Cooker Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a slow cooker liner: This will make cleaning up much easier and save time on scrubbing the slow cooker pot.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for future quick and easy meals.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp knife will make chopping and prepping ingredients quicker and more efficient.

Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily find the ingredients and tools you need, saving time and reducing stress during cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks are a great substitute for chicken thighs in slow cooker recipes as they are also dark meat and will remain moist and flavorful during the slow cooking process.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic in this recipe. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in this recipe. Use it in the same quantity as the kosher salt.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper in this recipe. It has a milder flavor and will blend well with the other ingredients.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar in this recipe. It will provide a similar sweetness and caramel flavor to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Elevate the dish with garnishes: Add a touch of elegance to the dish by garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
Create a stunning plating design: Arrange the slow-cooked chicken thighs on the plate with precision, ensuring that each piece is placed thoughtfully to create an appealing visual presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Pair the tender chicken thighs with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a vibrant arugula salad to provide a delightful contrast in textures.
Utilize high-quality serving ware: Present the brown sugar garlic chicken in a sophisticated porcelain dish to showcase the dish's refined flavors and elevate the overall dining experience.
Add a drizzle of reduction: Finish the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a touch of acidity and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Chicken

Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which is perfect for slow-cooking the brown sugar garlic chicken.
Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken thighs while cooking and for serving them once they are done.
Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure the garlic, salt, pepper, and brown sugar for the recipe.
Knife: Needed for prepping the chicken thighs and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for cutting the chicken thighs and mincing the garlic.
Mixing spoon: Used to mix the chicken, garlic, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker before adding the brown sugar.
Plates: Used for serving the cooked brown sugar garlic chicken.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to include any leftover juices from the slow cooker to keep the chicken moist.
Refrigerate the brown sugar garlic chicken for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply microwave or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
To freeze the chicken, place the cooled meat and its juices in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen brown sugar garlic chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken in a microwave or a skillet over medium heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you want to freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals, shred the cooled chicken and divide it into smaller freezer-safe containers or bags. This way, you can thaw and reheat only the amount you need.

Reheating Leftover Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through.
For a quick and easy option, you can use the microwave to reheat the chicken. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be sure to check the chicken every 30 seconds to avoid overheating and drying it out.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover chicken, try shredding it and using it in a sandwich, salad, or wrap. The slow cooker brown sugar garlic flavor will add a delicious twist to your meal.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the chicken under the broiler. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is heated through. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.

Interesting Trivia About Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Brown sugar garlic chicken is a popular slow cooker recipe that combines sweet and savory flavors. It's a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, vegetables, or salad. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

The cost-effectiveness of this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken recipe is quite high. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for a household. The chicken thighs are a cost-effective protein source, and the addition of garlic and brown sugar enhances the flavor without breaking the bank. This recipe offers a satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $10-$12, earning it a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe Healthy?

The slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken recipe, while flavorful, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on brown sugar, which is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in excess.
Chicken thighs are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast, which can increase the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.
The recipe lacks vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients that could provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing taste:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar used or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to lower the fat content.
Add vegetables like carrots, onions, and bell peppers to the slow cooker to boost the nutritional value of the dish.
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables and a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to create a balanced meal.
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor without relying on sugar.

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Dish

This slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of brown sugar adds a rich sweetness to the dish, while the garlic provides a robust and aromatic element. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender and juicy chicken thighs. This recipe is simple to prepare and yields delicious results, making it a perfect choice for a hassle-free weeknight meal.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables will complement the sweetness of the brown sugar in the chicken dish.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes would be a comforting and hearty side dish to pair with the slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken. The savory flavors of the potatoes will balance out the sweetness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

Fruit Salad: For a refreshing and light side dish, consider serving a vibrant fruit salad alongside the slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken. The natural sweetness of the fruits will provide a contrast to the savory and garlicky flavors of the chicken dish.

Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: This zesty and aromatic roasted chicken is seasoned with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs for a burst of bright and savory flavors.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and comforting risotto dish, featuring tender Arborio rice cooked with earthy mushrooms and finished with a touch of parmesan cheese.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of fall with this delicious apple cinnamon crisp, featuring sweet and tender apples topped with a crispy oat and cinnamon topping.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these bacon-wrapped dates. The crispy bacon complements the sweetness of the dates, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. The savory filling is packed with flavorful ingredients, creating a satisfying bite-sized treat that is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for all chicken lovers. The combination of savory garlic, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and juicy, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Trust the simplicity of this recipe to deliver a delicious meal that will surely become a family favorite. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken recipe promises to impress and satisfy your cravings.

Share your thoughts on this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the conversation and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this dish even more delicious!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, you can use skinless chicken thighs to reduce the fat content. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup as a substitute.

Can I add other seasonings or herbs to enhance the flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavor. Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add depth to the dish.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and freeze it?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken with the seasonings and brown sugar in advance and freeze it in an airtight container. When you're ready to cook, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then place it in the slow cooker as directed.

What can I serve with this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken?

This chicken dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.