Savory Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken Recipe for Busy Nights

The aroma of Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken wafts through the air, filling your home with a tantalizing blend of savory and sweet. Juicy chicken glistens in a rich balsamic sauce, making even the most chaotic weeknight feel like a gourmet experience. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, greeted by the comforting scent of tender chicken simmering in a luscious sauce. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an embrace on a plate and the perfect solution for busy families or cozy dinners with friends.

I remember serving this dish to my friends during one of our infamous potluck nights; they couldn’t believe something so delicious could come from a slow cooker!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; nothing beats that aromatic punch!
• Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar to achieve that rich, complex flavor everyone loves.
• Honey: Use pure honey for natural sweetness that balances the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar perfectly.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps things flavorful without overwhelming saltiness; it’s all about balance!
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary): Fresh herbs add vibrant flavors; they’re like little green fairies dancing in your dish!
• Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; these are your trusty sidekicks in every culinary adventure.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken: Rinse your boneless chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures they absorb all those delightful flavors.

Mix Your Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and chicken broth. The smell should be irresistible at this point!

Add Seasoning and Herbs: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts before pouring your sauce mixture over them. Don’t skimp on those herbs; they’ll elevate everything.

Set It and Forget It!: Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours. You could go binge-watch Netflix while this beauty cooks away!

Check for Tenderness: About 30 minutes before serving, check if the chicken easily pulls apart with a fork—if so, you nailed it! If not, let it cook longer.

Serve It Up!: Shred or slice your delicious chicken right before serving. Drizzle some sauce over it and garnish with fresh herbs for that fancy touch.

Now you have an easy yet impressive meal that’s sure to win hearts! Enjoy every comforting bite of this Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for a few minutes before placing it in the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the flavor and creates a delightful texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar or add honey for sweetness. Toss in some veggies like bell peppers or onions to elevate the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover slow cooker balsamic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

The first time I made slow cooker balsamic chicken, my friends devoured it, begging for seconds. That day taught me that patience pays off in flavor!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for slow cooker balsamic chicken?

Yes, but thawing is recommended for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

What sides pair well with slow cooker balsamic chicken?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh garden salad for balance.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for extra heat.

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Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 35 minute
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich balsamic sauce, creating an irresistible aroma and flavor profile. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this simple recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a gourmet meal. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, you can set it and forget it while enjoying tender chicken that impresses family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup pure honey
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry.
2. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; place them in a slow cooker.
4. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken; sprinkle with fresh herbs.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender.
6. Shred or slice the chicken before serving, drizzling with sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, consider searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. Feel free to customize your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.