Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken breasts
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2/3 cup vinegar (apple cider vinegar)
- 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)
Directions:
- Prepare Slow Cooker:
- Spray the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken in the crockpot.
- Create Sauce Mixture:
- Mix together brown sugar, vinegar, soda, minced garlic, soy sauce, and fresh ground pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Take chicken pieces out of the crockpot and pour the remaining sauce into a saucepan.
- Heat and Thicken:
- Place the saucepan over high heat. Mix together corn starch and water, pour into the saucepan, and mix well. Let the sauce come to a boil and boil for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to thicken and turns into a glaze.
- Finish and Add Spice:
- Remove from heat and let sit for a minute or two (it will continue to thicken as it cools down). Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired.
- Serve in Style:
- This delightful dish can be served over rice or noodles, allowing you to savor the fusion of flavors with each bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless Preparation: Just set it and forget it—your crockpot does the work, delivering a meal bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Serving: Whether over rice or noodles, this dish adapts to your preferences for a customizable dining experience.
- Sweet and Savory Harmony: Brown sugar, garlic, and soy sauce create a perfect symphony of sweet and savory goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
- A1: While it’s recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can adjust the cooking time if using frozen chicken breasts.
- Q2: Is diet soda necessary?
- A2: No, you can use regular soda if preferred. The soda adds a touch of sweetness to the glaze.
- Q3: Can I make it less sweet?
- A3: Absolutely! Adjust the brown sugar quantity to suit your taste preferences.
- Q4: Is the red pepper flakes necessary?
- A4: Red pepper flakes are optional but add a delightful kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Conclusion:
Elevate your slow-cooking game with the Crockpot Sweet Garlic Chicken—a culinary masterpiece that brings joy to your taste buds. Whether you’re a slow-cooking enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying meal. Embrace the simplicity and savor the richness of this sweet and garlicky creation.