Can I make Brown Sugar Balsamic Chicken without a crockpot?

Absolutely. You can bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To get that thick glaze, pour the sauce into a small pan afterward and simmer it for 5 minutes until it reduces, then spoon it over the chicken before serving.

How do I thicken the balsamic glaze if it’s too thin?

If your sauce turns out a little runny, simply transfer it to a small pot and simmer on medium heat for a few minutes. The sugar will caramelize, and the sauce will reduce into that perfect sticky texture.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can combine the sauce ingredients and chicken in a zip-top bag and refrigerate overnight. The flavors will deepen as it marinates. Just pour everything into your crockpot the next day and cook as usual.

What sides go best with this recipe?

Brown Sugar Balsamic Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or steamed jasmine rice. For something lighter, try it with a crisp green salad or even over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Brown Sugar Balsamic Chicken Recipe | Sweet & Tangy Comfort

Description

Juicy chicken slow-cooked in a rich brown sugar balsamic glaze. Sweet, tangy, and savory with a glossy finish everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

1/3 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon paprika

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts or thighs into your crockpot.

2. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, pepper, salt, paprika, and olive oil until smooth.

3. Pour the sweet tangy mixture evenly over the chicken.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or until tender and juicy.

5. Remove lid for the last 30 minutes to thicken the glaze.

6. Spoon the thick glossy balsamic glaze over the chicken before serving.

7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm over rice, potatoes, or veggies.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 2 hours before cooking.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce on the stove for 5 minutes after slow cooking.

Try swapping chicken for pork tenderloin or tofu for a different twist.

Leftovers can be stored up to 4 days in the fridge or frozen for 3 months.

Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 320
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: brown sugar balsamic chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken dinner, sweet tangy chicken, easy family meal