Sweet and Savory Delight
Introduction
In the realm of effortless yet flavorful meals, our Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken stands as a testament to culinary simplicity and taste. This dish marries the deep sweetness of brown sugar with the robust essence of garlic, resulting in tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth. Ideal for busy individuals seeking a hearty meal without extensive preparation, this recipe leverages the convenience of a slow cooker to deliver a dish that's both satisfying and straightforward.
Ingredients
To prepare this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs: 4-6 pieces, bone-in and skin-on
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed
- Garlic: 4 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Water: 1/4 cup
- Fresh Parsley: 1 teaspoon, chopped (for garnish)
Note: For a healthier alternative, you may opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts; however, bone-in, skin-on thighs provide enhanced flavor and moisture.
Preparation Steps
1. Searing the Chicken
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet, searing for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step locks in the juices and adds depth to the flavor.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once seared, transfer the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
2. Preparing the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, chopped garlic, black pepper, soy sauce, and water until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Pour Over Chicken: Evenly pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is well coated.
3. Slow Cooking
- Set the Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary based on your specific slow cooker model.
- Baste Occasionally: If possible, baste the chicken with the sauce once or twice during the cooking process to enhance flavor infusion.
4. Finishing Touches
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and set aside. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency.
- Garnish: Return the chicken to the sauce, if thickened, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Steamed Rice: The fluffy texture of steamed jasmine or basmati rice complements the rich sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for the savory chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers adds a nutritious and colorful element to the meal.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Based on 6 Servings):
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 35g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.