This Sweet Garlic Chicken is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a delicious, sticky garlic sauce. It’s sweet, savory, and absolutely mouthwatering!
You might find yourself licking the spoon after making this sauce – I know I do! 😄 Serve it with rice or veggies to make it complete, and watch everyone go for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work great too, adding more flavor. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is essential for that umami flavor! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari. For lower sodium, you can use low-sodium soy sauce without sacrificing taste.
Honey and Brown Sugar: These sweeteners balance the savory soy sauce. Maple syrup can replace honey for a different flavor, or use agave nectar as a vegan option. Adjust the amounts based on your sweetness preference!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch. For convenience, minced garlic from a jar works, but I prefer fresh for its distinct flavor. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon equals 1 clove of fresh garlic.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick! If you can’t find rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can serve as substitutes but will have a slightly different taste.
Sesame Oil: Although optional, sesame oil adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use a bit of olive oil instead.
How Do You Make the Sauce Thicker and More Flavorful?
Thickening the sauce can enhance the dish’s overall texture and richness! After cooking the chicken, you can achieve a thicker sauce by continuing to cook the sauce on high without the lid for about 15 minutes. This helps evaporate some moisture, intensifying the flavors.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.
- Turn the slow cooker to high and leave the lid off.
- Stir occasionally as it cooks; this way, the sauce reduces evenly.
- Once thickened to your desired consistency, re-add the chicken slices and drizzle that beautiful sauce over them.
This little step can make all the difference in bringing those flavors together and making your sweet garlic chicken even more enjoyable!
Delicious Sweet Garlic Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
For Serving:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the slow cooker for either 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day, you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sweet Garlic Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Mix well until everything is combined and the sugar starts to dissolve. This sweet and savory sauce is the star of the dish!
2. Season the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the sauce nicely. After seasoning, place the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken:
Carefully pour the sweet garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure each breast is thoroughly coated in that delicious mixture. You want all that flavor to soak in as it cooks.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic! You can cook it on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. When it’s done, the chicken should be cooked through and tender—perfect for shredding or slicing.
5. Finish Up and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. If you want a thicker sauce, leave the sauce in the slow cooker and cook it on high without the lid for about 15 minutes. This will create a lovely glaze. Now, slice the chicken and drizzle with the sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch!
6. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the sweet garlic chicken over your choice of cooked rice or noodles, and spoon extra sauce over it if you like. Enjoy this tasty, comforting dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain juicy during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly; thighs may need an additional 30 minutes if you’re cooking on low.
What’s a Good Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using tamari or coconut aminos. Both provide a similar umami flavor without the gluten. For a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover sweet garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! If using an Instant Pot, cook the chicken on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to use the sauté function to combine the sauce ingredients before adding the chicken. Quick release the pressure when done for juicy results!
