Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction to Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and the sweetness of brown sugar, creating a tantalizing meal that will please the whole family. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to come home to a warm, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, all you need to do is prepare the ingredients and let it work its magic!

A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Journey

As a young cook, I was always on the lookout for recipes that were not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. I stumbled upon this Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe during a particularly hectic week. With family visiting and little time to cook, I was amazed at how simple it was to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The resulting dish was a hit, and it quickly became a staple in our household. It’s a meal that brings back fond memories of family dinners and laughter around the table.

What Makes This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its perfect balance of sweet and savory. The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully during the slow cooking process, while the garlic infuses the chicken with an irresistible aroma. Plus, using a slow cooker means the chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy, making each bite melt in your mouth. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy home-cooked comfort food.

The Full Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 5 chicken thighs, skin on, bone-in
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

Instructions

1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and season them with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Make sure to rub the seasonings evenly over the chicken for the best flavor.
2. If you prefer crispier skin, consider browning the chicken in a pan with a tablespoon of vegetable oil before adding it to the slow cooker. Alternatively, if your slow cooker has a sear function, you can use that to achieve a nice brown color.
3. Flip the chicken thighs so that the skin side is facing up. This will help to keep the skin crispy as it cooks.
4. Sprinkle the light brown sugar over the chicken, ensuring that it covers the thighs evenly. The sugar will caramelize and create a delicious glaze.
5. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The longer cooking time on low will result in even more tender chicken.
6. Optional: Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of fresh greens or in a wrap with your favorite toppings. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of paprika to the chicken before cooking for an extra layer of flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite herbs or spices to make this dish truly your own!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out more easily than thighs. Consider reducing the cooking time if using breasts.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months.

Can I use other types of sugar?
While light brown sugar gives the best results, you can use regular granulated sugar or dark brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are gluten-free, but if you choose to add soy sauce, make sure to use a gluten-free version.

What can I serve with this chicken?
This chicken pairs well with rice, potatoes, or vegetables. You can also serve it in sandwiches or wraps for a fun twist!

Recipe Stats

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 8 hours 10 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 300
• Servings: 5

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with a touch of sweetness from the brown sugar in this easy slow cooker recipe.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 5 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker Ensure it has a sear function for browning.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 5 thighs chicken thighs, skin on, bone-in
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.25 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 0.33 cup packed light brown sugar

Instructions

 

• Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and season them with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
• If you prefer crispier skin, consider browning the chicken in a pan with a tablespoon of vegetable oil before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Flip the chicken thighs so that the skin side is facing up.
• Sprinkle the light brown sugar over the chicken.
• Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
• Optional: Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of paprika to the chicken before cooking.

Keyword Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe