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Sweet Garlic Chicken in the CrockPot

Sweet Garlic Chicken in the CrockPot

Sweet Garlic Chicken in the CrockPot is a simple, slow-cooked meal combining tender chicken with a sweet, garlicky sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish blends savory soy sauce, natural honey sweetness, and a touch of tang from apple cider vinegar, creating a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that fills your home with inviting aromas and satisfies the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in thighs recommended for juiciness)

Sauce

  • 4 to 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup/agave nectar)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Optional

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for subtle heat)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from chicken breasts or thighs and pat dry with paper towels to help the sauce adhere better during cooking.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves, forming a smooth and flavorful marinade.
  3. Assemble in the CrockPot: Place the chicken pieces at the bottom of the CrockPot. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Optionally, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top for a spicy kick.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If a thicker glaze is desired, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the CrockPot about 15 minutes before serving. Leave the lid off to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

  • Use bone-in thighs for juicier, more flavorful chicken.
  • Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain consistent cooking temperature.
  • Use fresh minced or pressed garlic for best flavor infusion.
  • Adjust sweetness to taste before serving by adding more honey or brown sugar if preferred.
  • Serve with the sauce spooned over the chicken to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently with added chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet garlic chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken, easy dinner, garlic chicken recipe, gluten free chicken