Crock-Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken
Savory Crock-Pot garlic brown sugar chicken features tender chunks glazed in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and enjoyed over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into chunks and place them in the crock-pot.
- In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup 7-Up, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2/3 cup vinegar, and 2 to 3 tablespoons minced garlic.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crock-pot.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve the chicken over rice or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of vinegar or adding a tablespoon of honey to the sauce. If you prefer a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce. To enhance the garlic flavor, try adding roasted garlic. For added texture, include vegetables like bell peppers or carrots in the crock-pot.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the garlic brown sugar chicken over fluffy white rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for a balanced plate. Consider drizzling with a bit of soy sauce or garnish with sesame seeds for extra flavor. This dish is also great in wraps or sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken contains roughly 348 calories, with 8g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 979mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's recommended to cook them on low for longer, about 8 to 10 hours, to ensure they cook thoroughly. However, fresh chicken is preferable for better texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for 7-Up?
You can substitute 7-Up with another lemon-lime soda or even use lemon juice mixed with a bit of sugar and water for a similar flavor profile. This will maintain the sweetness and acidity that the recipe calls for.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just pour it into the crock-pot and set it to cook. This makes for an easy, hassle-free dinner when you come home.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).