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Crockpot Balsamic Chicken

Savory Crockpot Balsamic Chicken with Melt-in-Your-Mouth Flavor

This Crockpot Balsamic Chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a savory masterpiece, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs Can be substituted with chicken thighs for more flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 8 ounces Cremini or Baby Bella Mushrooms Any fresh mushrooms can work as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow onions are ideal; red onions can add color.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh isn't available.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar Red wine vinegar can be a substitute, although flavor will vary.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Tamari can be used for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup or brown sugar can be substituted for sweetness.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh thyme can be used, but adjust quantity.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use any cooking oil, like avocado oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Optional thickening agent for the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Used with cornstarch to thicken sauce.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Other herbs like basil can be used as a garnish.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Step 1: Sear the Chicken - In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and allow it to warm up before placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the pan. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it's golden brown and fragrant.
  2. Step 2: Combine Ingredients - Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add sliced cremini mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker alongside the chicken. Pour in the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and sprinkle in dried oregano and thyme. Ensure everything is well-mixed.
  3. Step 3: Cook on Low - Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This cooking method allows the chicken to absorb the wonderful flavors, resulting in a tender, juicy texture.
  4. Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (optional) - When the cooking time is nearly complete, carefully remove the chicken and mushrooms from the slow cooker, and in a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the remaining sauce and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Step 5: Serve and Garnish - Return the tender chicken and mushrooms to the sauce, coating them with the balsamic mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for a few hours before cooking. Keep the slow cooker lid on tightly during cooking, and use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.

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