Description
This Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken recipe is an easy and flavorful dish where tender chicken breasts are simmered in a tangy balsamic vinegar sauce infused with aromatic herbs and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting recipe requires minimal prep and slow cooking to develop rich, savory flavors that pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- â…“ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Chicken and Seasonings
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In the slow cooker, whisk together balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended.
- Season Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts if desired. Season each breast generously with dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with savory and aromatic flavors.
- Slow Cook: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and stir gently to coat them evenly with the balsamic sauce. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional Sauce Reduction: If you prefer a thicker sauce, carefully transfer the cooking juices from the slow cooker to a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until the sauce reduces slightly. For extra thickness, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in a little water and cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the sauce over the cooked chicken breasts and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete, hearty meal.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference for mild to moderately spicy flavor.
- To keep chicken breasts moist, do not overcook; check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- If you prefer dark meat, thighs can be substituted but may require slightly longer cooking time.
- The optional cornstarch thickening step is ideal if serving the sauce over rice or mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently to retain moisture.
