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Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken is sweet and savory, perfect with lightly steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a fresh crunch.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 5
Calories 308 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh garlic
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse Kosher salt
  • 5 bone-in chicken thighs with skin
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This ensures that the flavors get into the meat from the get-go. I always have a little salt and pepper dance before we start any dish. The aroma kicks things off on the right foot.

Step 2: Create the Sauce Mixture

  • In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic, and soy sauce. Mix until you have a smooth, thick paste. I often take a moment to savor the sweet and savory scent of the sauce. It’s like magic in a bowl.

Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker

  • Place your seasoned chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken. Ensure every piece is coated.
  • You want every bite to explode with flavor. You’ll notice the thick sauce settling over the chicken—this is where the magic happens.

Step 4: Set and Forget

  • Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours. This leisurely cooking time allows the chicken to soak up all that sweet garlicky goodness.
  • You might find yourself stopping by the kitchen to get a whiff of the enticing aroma filling your home.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once the time is up, the chicken should be tender enough to fall off the bone. Carefully remove it, and let it rest for a few minutes. You can also drizzle some of the cooked sauce over the chicken before serving. Plate it up with your side dishes, and you’re ready to feast!

Notes

  • Ingredient Quality: Quality ingredients yield better results. Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: If your slow cooker is small, consider cooking in batches. Chicken thighs need space to cook evenly.
  • Timing Is Key: The low setting on a slow cooker is best for this recipe. Avoid the temptation to crank it up; low and slow is the secret.
  • Adjust the Sugar: If you find the sauce too sweet, reduce the brown sugar by a tablespoon. Balance is everything.
  • Use Leftover Sauce: Don’t toss the sauce. Use it to drizzle over rice or veggies—you’ll be glad you did.

Nutrition

Serving: 138gCalories: 308kcalProtein: 23gFat: 22.8gSaturated Fat: 6.2gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 344mg
Keyword Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe
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