If you're craving a savory and comforting meal that’s easy to make, this slow-cooked chicken is just what you need! Packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients, it’s a great way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in the sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for any family meal.
why make this recipe
This slow-cooked chicken recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a hearty meal but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s quick to prep, and once it’s in the slow cooker, you can leave it to cook while you go about your day. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables, making it an ideal family dinner.
how to make Slow-Cooked Chicken
Ingredients:
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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3 tablespoons cornstarch
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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1 tablespoon canola oil
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1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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4 tablespoons ketchup
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2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
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4 tablespoons rice vinegar
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1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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1 cup cashews
Directions:
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In a bowl, coat the chicken pieces with black pepper and cornstarch.
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Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and brown it on all sides.
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In another bowl, mix the red pepper flakes, ginger, garlic, ketchup, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and soy sauce together.
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Pour this flavorful sauce mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet.
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Stir in the cashews for an extra crunch.
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Cover the skillet and transfer everything into a slow cooker. Let it simmer on low heat for 4 to 6 hours.
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Serve hot with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
how to serve Slow-Cooked Chicken
This delicious slow-cooked chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or fresh vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, or even enjoy it on its own for a lighter meal.
how to store Slow-Cooked Chicken
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it or heat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
tips to make Slow-Cooked Chicken
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If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a chopped chili pepper to the sauce.
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For extra flavor, you can sauté the garlic and ginger in the pan before adding the chicken for a more aromatic base.
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Be sure to check the chicken's tenderness after 4 hours in the slow cooker. If it's already tender, you can stop the cooking process early.
variation (if any)
You can switch up the protein by using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer, juicier dish. For a different texture, try adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas to the slow cooker with the chicken.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it before cooking for even browning.
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Can I cook this recipe on high heat in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook it on high heat for 2 to 3 hours if you’re short on time.
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Can I add other nuts instead of cashews? Absolutely! You can use almonds, peanuts, or even walnuts for a different crunch.