Crockpot Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken – Sweet & Savory Comfort

I’ve always had a soft spot for those recipes that hit the sweet and savory notes at the same time.

This Crockpot Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken is one of my go-to dishes when I need something that’s both easy and impressive.

The slow cooker does all the work, leaving me with tender, juicy chicken that’s coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce.

Every time I serve this, I get requests for seconds—and for the recipe!

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Recipe Highlights

This dish combines pantry staples to create a sauce that’s irresistibly sweet, garlicky, and slightly tangy.

The crockpot ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender, soaking up every bit of flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve for guests.

Highlights:

• Minimal prep and hands-off slow cooking.
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• Sweet and savory sauce that caramelizes beautifully.
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• Pairs well with rice, noodles, or roasted veggies.
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• Kid-friendly flavors that adults love too.
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• Budget-friendly recipe with simple ingredients.

Ingredients That Make It Special

The combination of ingredients is what truly sets this dish apart. Packed brown sugar adds a delightful sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as the chicken cooks.

Minced garlic cloves infuse the dish with a robust flavor, while soy sauce contributes a savory depth.

Apple cider vinegar introduces a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, and a touch of cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings perfectly to the chicken.

A sprinkle of black pepper rounds out the flavors, providing a gentle warmth.

• Chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs are more flavorful and juicier, but breasts work well too for a leaner option.
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• Brown sugar – Creates a caramelized sweetness that balances the garlic and soy sauce.
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• Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic gives the sauce depth and bold flavor.
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• Soy sauce – Adds saltiness and umami richness to round out the sweetness.
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• Apple cider vinegar – A splash of tang that brightens the sauce.
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• Black pepper – A little spice to balance sweetness.
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• Cornstarch slurry – Optional for thickening the sauce before serving.

How to Make My Crockpot Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken

1. Prep the crockpot: Spray the insert with non-stick spray.
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2. Add chicken: Place chicken pieces in the crockpot in a single layer.
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3. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper.
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4. Pour over chicken: Cover the chicken evenly with the sauce.
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5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is cooked through and tender.
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6. Optional thickening: Remove chicken and set aside. Pour liquid into a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and whisk in a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) until thickened. Return chicken to the sauce or pour thickened sauce over chicken before serving.

Cooking Method

To prepare this dish, start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts in the crockpot.

In a separate bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, and black pepper until well combined.

Pour this flavorful sauce over the chicken and cover the crockpot. Cooking on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors, resulting in a tender and juicy meal.

Enhancing the Meal

Once the chicken is cooked, you can thicken the sauce if desired. Remove the chicken, create a slurry with cornstarch and water, and stir it into the sauce.

Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

Return the chicken to the pot to coat it in the thickened sauce. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor, making it a truly satisfying dish.

Serving Suggestions

This crockpot garlic and brown sugar chicken is best served hot, garnished with fresh chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Pair it with fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and add steamed broccoli for a nutritious touch.

The combination of the tender chicken, sweet and savory sauce, and vibrant sides creates a visually appealing and appetizing meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

• Serve over fluffy white rice or fried rice to soak up the sauce.
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• Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for freshness.
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• Spoon over buttered egg noodles for a comforting option.
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• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

So, gather your ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as this delicious chicken dish comes to life!

Tips for the Best Crockpot Garlic and Brown Sugar Chicken

Use chicken thighs for the juiciest results, and don’t be afraid to adjust the sauce’s sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.

For a stickier finish, thicken the sauce with cornstarch just before serving. If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Always taste and adjust before plating.

Storage and Warming Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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• Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.