Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook faster than thighs and could become dry if overcooked. To retain moisture, check for doneness around 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low, depending on the size of the breasts.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the chicken skin side down first, then follow the recipe steps. Cook on manual pressure for 8-10 minutes and allow a 10-minute natural release.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your brown sugar and spices are free of cross-contamination. Always double-check ingredient labels to confirm they are certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Vegetables like carrots, baby potatoes, or green beans can be added to the slow cooker. Place them at the bottom under the chicken to absorb the flavors and cook evenly.

How can I make the skin crispier after slow cooking?

If you prefer crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet after slow cooking and broil it in the oven for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity to hold the chicken pieces in a single layer for even cooking. If your slow cooker is smaller, consider cooking in batches.

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Description

Slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken is a simple 5-ingredient recipe featuring juicy chicken in a rich, sweet-and-savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy slow cooker recipe will fill your home with incredible aromas and deliver a family-friendly, delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 (10 oz) packet of Italian dressing mix
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, green onions, or toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Italian dressing mix, and black pepper to create a rub.
Season both sides of the chicken with the rub, massaging it in for full flavor.
Place the chicken skin-side up in a 6-quart slow cooker. Add minced garlic.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with sauce drizzled on top and garnish if desired.

Notes

Chicken thighs release enough juices to create their own flavorful sauce, so no extra liquid is needed.
For a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time.
To crisp up the skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
Calories: 300
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: crockpot chicken with brown sugar and soy sauce, slow cooker brown sugar chicken, brown sugar garlic chicken thighs slow cooker, 3-ingredient brown sugar chicken slow cooker, honey garlic brown sugar chicken breast, slow cooker chicken 5 ingredients