Description
This Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken is the ultimate hands-off meal, packed with flavor and made with just a few simple ingredients. With tender, juicy chicken smothered in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need a comforting dinner with minimal effort. Let the slow cooker do all the work—prep time is just 10 minutes, and dinner practically makes itself!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup or brown sugar)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. If the breasts are large, cut them in half to ensure even cooking. -
Mix the balsamic glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any herbs you’re using. -
Pour the glaze over the chicken:
Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure the chicken is evenly coated. -
Cook the chicken:
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork. For a quicker option, cook on high for 2-3 hours. -
Shred the chicken (optional):
Once the chicken is cooked and tender, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce. You can also serve the breasts whole if preferred. -
Serve and enjoy:
Serve the chicken with your favorite sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. Spoon the extra sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs can add more flavor to the sauce.
- Don’t overcook: Check the chicken after 4 hours to avoid overcooking. Dry chicken can result from too much time in the slow cooker.
- Optional searing: For added flavor, you can sear the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker, though it’s not required.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (about 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 70mg