Description
This Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked low and slow in a flavorful balsamic vinegar-based sauce combined with garlic, herbs, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. It’s an easy, hands-off meal perfect for busy days, delivering rich, savory flavors with minimal prep and maximum comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- â…“ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Chicken and Seasonings
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In your slow cooker, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Season Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts if desired. Then, generously season each piece with dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to build layers of flavor.
- Slow Cook: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts inside the slow cooker, gently stirring to coat each piece evenly with the balsamic sauce mixture. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional Sauce Reduction: If you prefer a thicker sauce, carefully transfer the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to a saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat until slightly reduced. To thicken further, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water and cook a minute more until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
- Serve: Plate the slow-cooked chicken breasts and spoon the luscious balsamic sauce over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh garlic and measure the herbs carefully to balance the flavors.
- Check the chicken temperature to ensure it is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Thickening the sauce with cornstarch is optional but enhances the texture and presentation.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adjust red pepper flakes if you prefer less heat.
