The sweet-and-savory combination shines in this easy crockpot brown sugar garlic chicken.
Best of all: you only need 5 ingredients (or 3 if you don’t count salt and pepper) to make this tender, flavorful slow cooker chicken thighs recipe.
This is my go-to slow cooker chicken thigh recipe with the bone in. It’s simple to prepare and reliably turns out juicy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken every time.
The brown sugar and garlic create a sweet, savory glaze that keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
Ingredients
Most of these are pantry staples—perfect for a low-effort weeknight dinner.
Chicken thighs – Bone-in, skin-on thighs give the most flavor and stay juicy. You can use boneless or breasts if preferred; adjust cooking time as needed.
Brown sugar – Light or dark brown sugar both work and create a lovely glaze.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is ideal, but jarred minced garlic is a convenient substitute.
Salt & pepper – Season to taste.
How to Make
Step 1 (optional): Sear the thighs for about 4 minutes per side in a hot skillet with a little oil or butter. This step crisps the skin and adds extra flavor, but it’s not required.
Step 2: Place the chicken thighs in an even layer in the bottom of the crockpot.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spoon or sprinkle the mixture over the chicken, cover, and cook.
Step 4: When the chicken reaches 165°F internally, it’s done. Remove from the slow cooker and serve.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips and Variations
- Searing the thighs first gives the skin some crispness and extra texture; if you skip searing, the skin will be soft after slow cooking.
- Season freely. Salt and pepper are all you need, but smoked paprika, onion powder, or a pinch of chili powder add depth.
- Add vegetables for a one-pot meal. Stir in carrots, green beans, or broccoli during the last 1–2 hours of cooking so they stay tender-crisp.
What to Serve With Chicken
Pair this brown sugar garlic chicken with simple sides. A few favorites:
- Tomato salad with feta
- Mac and cheese
- Boston baked beans
- No-mayo coleslaw
Recipe FAQs
The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F. Use an instant-read thermometer and avoid touching the bone with the probe to get an accurate reading.
It’s not recommended because frozen meat can spend too long at temperatures that allow bacterial growth. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator before slow cooking for safety and even cooking.
Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or on LOW for 6–8 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
More Tasty Chicken Dinner Ideas
- Ritz Chicken Casserole
- Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
- Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Wings
- One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
- Cornflake Chicken Tenders
- Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Chicken Dumpling Casserole — a family favorite
- Classic Chicken Parm
Crockpot Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- 5 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin on
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ⅓ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Optional but recommended: Heat 2 tablespoons oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken thighs 3–4 minutes per side until golden to help crisp the skin.
- Arrange the thighs in an even layer in the crockpot.
- Whisk together brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the chicken and cover.
- Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Notes
Nutrition
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Calories: 328kcal
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