Name: Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup Balsamic Vinegar; 4 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low sodium); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar; 1/8 cup Maple Syrup (pure); 1 tablespoon Ketchup; 1 tablespoon Sriracha Sauce; 1/2 tablespoon Ginger Root (fresh); 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder; 3/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (ground); 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 1/2 pounds Chicken Thigh (boneless, skinless); 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/8 cup Cornstarch; 2 stalks Green Onion; 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds

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There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs wafting through the house. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a particularly hectic day, and I was racing against the clock. I had a million things on my mind, and the last thing I wanted was to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I discovered the beauty of a slow cooker. I tossed in some tender chicken thighs, a vibrant blend of sauces, and a few spices, and let the crockpot work its magic. The result was an incredibly flavorful dish that felt like a warm hug at the end of a long day.

Each bite of this dish tells a story, with the sweet and savory flavors dancing on your palate. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs always brings joy to the table. For me, it’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of those cozy evenings spent with loved ones, sharing laughter, and enjoying good food. Plus, the best part? It’s so easy to prepare. Just throw everything in, and let the slow cooker do the work!

This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Everyone loves how tender the chicken turns out, soaking up the rich flavors of the sauce. And don’t get me started on the leftovers—if there are any! They make for a fantastic lunch the next day. So let’s get started on this incredible recipe that’s sure to impress!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
120 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan, Whisk, Chef’s Knife

The Best Thing About This Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the things I love most about Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs is how effortless it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can have a gourmet meal ready to go. There’s no need to chop a million vegetables or stand over the stove for hours. Just mix the sauce, season the chicken, and let the slow cooker do the rest!

Incredible Flavor

The combination of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and Sriracha creates a unique and mouthwatering flavor profile. The sweetness from the brown sugar and maple syrup balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce, while the ginger adds a delightful warmth. This dish is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Tender and Juicy Chicken

Using chicken thighs in this recipe ensures that the meat stays juicy and tender, even after hours of cooking. Unlike chicken breast, which can dry out, chicken thighs are forgiving and soak up the sauce beautifully. The result is perfectly cooked chicken that is bursting with flavor.

Versatile Serving Options

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even with a side of steamed vegetables. It pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice, allowing you to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. You can also make it a low-carb option by serving it with cauliflower rice. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who enjoys meal prepping, Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs is a fantastic choice. You can make a big batch and store leftovers for the week ahead. It reheats beautifully, making it an easy grab-and-go option for busy days. Just pack it with your favorite sides, and you’re set!

What to Buy for Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs

When it comes to creating Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that rich, savory flavor. Each component adds its unique touch, harmonizing beautifully to make an unforgettable dish. The key players in this recipe include tender chicken thighs and a blend of bold sauces that infuse the meat with flavor.

Balsamic Vinegar – A sweet and tangy ingredient that enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
Soy Sauce – Provides a salty umami kick that is essential for Asian-inspired dishes.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Maple Syrup – Natural sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Ketchup – Brings a familiar flavor and a touch of sweetness to the mix.
Sriracha Sauce – Adds a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Fresh Ginger – Offers a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
Onion Powder – A subtle flavor enhancer that rounds out the sauce.
Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat and brings everything together.
Garlic Powder – Infuses the dish with a savory note.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The star of the show, providing rich flavor and tenderness.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious texture.
Green Onions – Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Sesame Seeds – Toasted for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Making Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs

Making Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs is as simple as gathering your ingredients and letting the slow cooker do the magic. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, maple syrup, ketchup, Sriracha sauce, ginger, onion powder, half of the black pepper, and garlic powder. This sauce will be the heart of your dish, so ensure everything is well combined and flavorful.
Chop the green onions and set them aside for garnishing later. Their fresh taste will add brightness to the finished dish.
Season the chicken thighs with salt and the remaining black pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly; this will enhance the flavor as it cooks.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
Pour the prepared sauce over the top of the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated well in the delicious mixture.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours. The chicken is done when it is no longer pink and easily shreds with a fork.
Once the chicken is cooked, scoop the sauce out of the slow cooker and transfer it to a small saucepan. This will be used to thicken and finish the sauce.
In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch with a little cold water until dissolved. This will help thicken the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture.
Pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan with the sauce and heat over low. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until thickened. The sauce should be glossy and able to coat the back of a spoon.
Drizzle the thickened sauce over the cooked chicken. Garnish with the chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking on high vs. low: Cooking the chicken on high is faster, but low cooking tends to enhance the flavors even more, making the chicken exceptionally tender.
Thickening the sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch and water mixture towards the end of cooking.
Chicken doneness: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Batch cooking: This recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings. Just ensure your slow cooker is big enough!

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to make Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs your own! Here are some tips to customize the recipe to your liking.

Heat level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha sauce to control the spiciness. Want it mild? Cut back on the Sriracha.
Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and texture.
Serving style: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.
Meal prep: Make a larger batch and divide it into individual servings for easy lunches throughout the week.
Garnish: Use different toppings such as chopped peanuts or cilantro for a unique flavor and texture.

Great Combinations for Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs

Serving Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs is a delightful experience, and there are so many great combinations to try. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs perfectly, absorbing the rich sauce.
Noodles: Serve it on top of stir-fried noodles for a filling meal.
Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy on the side for a healthy boost.
Occasions: This dish is fantastic for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in individual portions for easy meals later on.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can cook the Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs on low for about 4 hours. Cooking on low will enhance the flavors and keep the chicken extra tender. If you have the time, I recommend this method for the best results.

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy Jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even noodles. You can also serve it with fresh salad or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fun twist. The sauce is so flavorful that you’ll want to make sure you have something to soak it all up!

Certainly! You can prepare the sauce and season the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This makes it super convenient for meal prep or busy weeknights!

Leftovers of Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing individual portions for future meals. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Conclusion

In summary, Asian Crockpot Chicken Thighs is a dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and the end result is so satisfying that it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try making this dish for your next dinner; it’s a recipe that brings everyone together around the table and fills your home with delightful aromas. Enjoy!