Crock Pot Sweet Garlic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crock Pot Sweet Garlic Chicken is packed with flavor! The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is incredibly tender, and the combination of brown sugar, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze. With a hint of tang from the vinegar and a touch of heat from the optional red pepper flakes, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or a baked potato.

Ingredients

• 4-6 chicken breasts
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2/3 cup vinegar (apple cider vinegar works great)
• 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda (diet or regular)
• 2-3 Tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 Tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 2 Tablespoons corn starch
• 2 Tablespoons water
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place Chicken in Cooker: Add the chicken breasts (fresh, thawed, or frozen) into the slow cooker.
3. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, vinegar, lemon-lime soda, garlic, soy sauce, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Make the Glaze: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker (it should fall apart easily). Pour the remaining sauce into a saucepan over high heat.
6. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour it into the saucepan with the sauce and stir well. Let the sauce come to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens into a glaze.
7. Serve: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
8. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish for an extra touch of spice if desired.
9. Serve: Serve the chicken over rice, noodles, or with a baked potato on the side. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6-8 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce to increase the heat.
• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and extra juiciness.
• Vegetarian Option: Try using tofu or seitan in place of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some vegetables like bell peppers or onions during the last hour of cooking for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan on low heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the slow cooker for 1-2 hours on low.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to cook it on the longer side (about 8 hours on low) to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

Can I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

Yes, you can use flour as a thickening agent instead of cornstarch. Just make a roux by cooking equal parts flour and butter, then add it to the sauce.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you like more spice, add extra red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you have a large enough slow cooker. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

What can I serve this with?

This chicken is great over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. You can also pair it with steamed veggies or a simple green salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead, then store it in the fridge. Reheat and thicken the sauce when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s a great recipe for meal prepping since it’s flavorful, versatile, and easy to store for later use.

How can I make this dish less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar and soda, and increase the vinegar for more acidity.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Sweet Garlic Chicken is a deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Serve it over your favorite starch, and enjoy the sweet, savory goodness of this simple but satisfying dish!

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