Slow Cooker Glazed Chicken: Easy Weeknight Dinner (Print Version)
Slow cooker glazed chicken delivers tender, flavorful results with minimal effort. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal, this recipe is a family favorite.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 240 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 255 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Sweet & Savory Glaze
03 -
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
04 -
1/2 cup honey
05 -
1/4 cup ketchup
06 -
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
07 -
2 tbsp light brown sugar, packed
08 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
09 -
2 tbsp cold water
10 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Aromatic Enhancers
11 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
13 -
1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
→ Fresh Finishers
14 -
2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish
15 -
1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Pat dry 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finely dice 1/2 yellow onion, mince 4 cloves garlic, and grate 1 tbsp fresh ginger. These foundational steps are crucial for the Best Slow Cooker Glazed Chicken Recipe.
02 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp light brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). This creates the sweet and savory base for your glaze.
03 -
Place the seasoned chicken thighs into your slow cooker. Evenly scatter the diced 1/2 yellow onion, minced 4 cloves garlic, and grated 1 tbsp fresh ginger over the chicken. Pour the prepared glaze mixture over everything, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
04 -
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. The low and slow cooking method ensures the most succulent Best Slow Cooker Glazed Chicken Recipe.
05 -
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the liquid remaining in the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
06 -
Shred the chicken thighs using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the thickened glaze in the slow cooker and toss to coat thoroughly. Garnish your Best Slow Cooker Glazed Chicken Recipe with 2 tbsp chopped green onions and 1 tsp sesame seeds before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the chicken thighs in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This chicken is fantastic over rice or in lettuce wraps.
03 -
If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the glaze.
04 -
Serve this delicious glazed chicken with steamed white rice and a side of roasted broccoli or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
02 -
Whisk
03 -
Measuring cups and spoons
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 525 kcal
Total Fat: 18 g
Total Carbohydrate: 37 g
Protein: 52 g