Description
Savor succulent Balsamic Chicken, a slow-cooker masterpiece that infuses tender poultry with rich, tangy flavors. Hearty ingredients meld together, creating a mouthwatering dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Liquid and Seasonings:
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (drained)
Herbs and Spices:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Thickening Agent (optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Carefully position whole chicken breasts into the ceramic slow cooker, ensuring they lay flat and do not overlap.
- Create a vibrant balsamic marinade by whisking together tangy balsamic vinegar, fruity olive oil, golden honey, minced garlic, aromatic dried herbs, and a pinch of spicy red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl.
- Generously drizzle the prepared marinade directly over the chicken, coating each piece thoroughly with the glossy liquid mixture.
- Scatter thinly sliced onions across the chicken and sprinkle the drained diced tomatoes evenly throughout the cooking vessel.
- Secure the lid on the slow cooker and allow the ingredients to simmer gently on low temperature for approximately 6-7 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken becomes exceptionally tender and can be effortlessly shredded with a fork.
- For those desiring a more robust sauce consistency, whisk cornstarch with water to create a quick slurry, then fold into the cooking liquid and continue heating for an additional 15 minutes until the sauce reaches a luxurious, slightly thickened texture.
- Once cooking completes, delicately shred the chicken using two forks, allowing it to absorb the remaining aromatic sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and serve alongside fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Always choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and easier shredding in the slow cooker.
- Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar to enhance the rich, complex flavor profile of the dish.
- Reduce sauce’s acidity by using a milder balsamic or adding an extra tablespoon of honey for balance.
- Customize protein options by substituting chicken with turkey breast or firm tofu for dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg