Quick and Tasty Slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe

Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken with the rich, tangy notes of balsamic vinegar. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it requires minimal prep and allows the slow cooker to do all the work. The chicken cooks to perfection, absorbing the delicious marinade, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch your family devour this comforting dish.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 cup honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparation and Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): For added flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. If you used cherry tomatoes, scatter them around the chicken.

4. Add Marinade: Pour the prepared balsamic marinade over the chicken, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.

5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

6. Shred or Serve Whole: Once cooked, you can either shred the chicken with two forks or leave the breasts whole for serving.

7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, spooning the sauce and tomatoes over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for the balsamic chicken recipe

Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken pairs wonderfully with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Steamed rice or quinoa

• Fresh green salad

• Roasted vegetables

Tips for slow cooker balsamic Chicken recipe

• Marinate in Advance: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables like sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the slow cooker for added nutrition and a one-pot meal.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a sugar substitute.

• Thicken the Sauce: If you desire a thicker sauce, you can remove the cooked chicken and simmer the sauce on the stove for a few minutes until it reduces and thickens. Alternatively, mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and add it to the sauce while cooking.

• Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition Value (per serving, estimated)

• Calories: 300

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 5g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 12g

• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs About the balsamic chicken recipe

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, you may need to extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure they cook thoroughly.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?

A: To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Use the low setting if time allows, as slow cooking on low heat retains more moisture. Additionally, the balsamic marinade helps to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

A: Yes! Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in individual containers and reheated throughout the week.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to sear the chicken, then add the marinade and cook on high pressure for about 8-10 minutes. Allow for a natural release.

Q: Can I use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

A: Yes, pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or 1 tablespoon of pre-minced garlic for the three garlic cloves in the recipe.

Q: How can I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?

A: To make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly, reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Serve with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables.

Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The tangy balsamic vinegar combined with honey creates a delicious sauce that infuses the chicken with rich flavors. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can create a satisfying meal that your family will love. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dinner experience.