Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

I make this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken when I want a dinner that’s sweet, savory, and completely effortless. The chicken turns tender and juicy as it simmers in a rich brown sugar and garlic sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice, potatoes, or vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe uses just a few simple ingredients to create deep, comforting flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, so I can prep it in minutes and come back to a delicious, ready-to-serve meal. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and makes great leftovers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley, sesame seeds

Directions

1. I place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. In a small bowl, I mix together the brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, pepper, and paprika.

3. I pour the mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.

4. I cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. I serve the chicken whole, sliced, or shredded with the sauce spooned over the top, adding parsley or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: I usually get 6 servings.

• Timing: Prep time is about 10 minutes, cook time is 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high, so total time depends on the setting.

Variations

• I sometimes add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.

• Using chicken thighs instead of breasts gives a richer, juicier result.

• I’ve replaced soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

• For a little spice, I stir in crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, I warm the chicken and sauce together on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes—I just adjust the cooking time slightly, adding about 30–45 minutes for bone-in pieces.

Can I thicken the sauce?

Definitely—I mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Is this too sweet?

Not for me, but I sometimes reduce the brown sugar to ¾ cup if I want it less sweet.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes—just make sure your slow cooker can hold it and extend cooking time slightly if needed.

What’s the best side dish for this chicken?

I love serving it over rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

I enjoy making this slow cooker brown sugar garlic chicken because it’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and always a hit at the table. It’s the kind of recipe that works for both busy weeknights and lazy weekends, and it never disappoints.