Slow Cooker Korean Chicken has become my go-to weeknight meal for a reason – it’s incredibly flavorful and practically makes itself! I remember the first time I tried making it; the aroma of garlic, ginger, and that sweet-spicy sauce filled my kitchen, making my mouth water before it was even ready. This crock pot Korean chicken is so simple, even on the busiest evenings. You’ll love how tender the chicken gets, soaking up all those delicious Korean flavors. It’s truly an easy slow cooker Korean chicken that will impress everyone at your table. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
This dish is a weeknight superhero, and here’s why:
- Incredible Flavor: Tender chicken bathed in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy Korean sauce that everyone raves about.
- Minimal Prep Time: You only need about 15 minutes to get everything into the slow cooker.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and veggies, making it a nutritious choice.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients for a satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters devour this comforting Korean chicken in slow cooker.
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to relax.
- Versatile: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables.
- Delicious Korean Chicken in Slow Cooker: It’s the perfect way to enjoy authentic Korean flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this amazing slow cooker Korean chicken dish. The magic really happens with the sauce, and a key player here is the gochujang, which gives this gochujang slow cooker chicken its signature sweet and spicy kick. You’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth – forms the base of our flavorful sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce – for that essential umami
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup – adds a lovely sweetness to balance the savory
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – brings a touch of tanginess
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – for that distinct nutty aroma
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – essential for flavor depth
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger – adds warmth and zing
- 1 cup carrots, sliced – for sweetness and texture
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped – any color works great!
- 1 cup onion, chopped – provides a savory foundation
- 2 cups baby spinach or bok choy – wilts down beautifully in the broth
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – adjust for your preferred heat level
- Salt and black pepper to taste – season as needed
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving – perfect for soaking up the sauce
- Sliced green onions for garnish – adds a fresh, crisp finish
How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
Get ready for the easiest, most flavorful Korean chicken you’ve ever made right in your slow cooker! This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
- Step 1: First, prep your chicken. Trim any excess fat from the slow cooker Korean chicken thighs and then cut them into nice, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all that amazing flavor.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients for your sauce. Combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Give it a good whisk until everything is well combined and fragrant.
- Step 3: Now, layer everything into your slow cooker. Place the chicken pieces in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken. The aroma at this stage is already incredible!
- Step 4: Next, add your vegetables. Layer the sliced carrots, chopped bell peppers, and chopped onion right on top of the chicken and sauce. This makes for a beautiful presentation and ensures they cook perfectly.
- Step 5: Season everything. Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat!), salt, and black pepper over the vegetables and chicken. Remember, you can always add more salt later if needed.
- Step 6: Cover and cook. Set your slow cooker to the LOW setting for 6-8 hours or the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will depend on your specific slow cooker. You’re looking for the chicken to be meltingly tender.
- Step 7: Add greens. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in your baby spinach or bok choy. They will wilt down quickly into the hot sauce, adding a fresh element to your Korean chicken in slow cooker.
- Step 8: Taste and serve. Once everything is cooked and the greens are wilted, give it a taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve this delicious slow cooker Korean chicken thighs creation over fluffy rice or quinoa, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh green onions for that perfect finishing touch.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
Want to elevate your slow cooker Korean chicken game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that make all the difference!
- Don’t skip the aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger are crucial for that authentic Korean flavor base.
- Seal in the flavor: Browning the chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker adds an extra layer of taste and texture.
- Adjust sweetness and spice: Taste the sauce before serving and add more honey or gochujang if needed to suit your preference.
- Thicken the sauce: If your sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What’s the secret to perfect Korean chicken slow cooker?
The real secret to a perfect Korean chicken slow cooker is the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. For an even better result, consider making it a Korean BBQ chicken slow cooker by adding a touch more gochujang and a splash of extra soy sauce. If you enjoy similar flavor profiles, you might also like this caramelised soy chicken garlic recipe.
Can I make slow cooker Korean chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can definitely prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop your veggies and cut the chicken the night before. You can even mix the sauce ingredients together and store them in a separate container. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
How do I avoid common mistakes with slow cooker Korean chicken?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times. Also, make sure to taste and adjust seasonings at the end; the slow cooker can mute flavors slightly, so a final check is key for this slow cooker Korean chicken.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
This delicious slow cooker Korean chicken is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to create a fantastic meal. For a classic experience, serve it piping hot over fluffy steamed white rice or nutty brown rice. The rice is perfect for soaking up that incredible savory sauce! If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, quinoa is also a fantastic option. To get that perfect slow cooker chicken Korean style, pair it with a side of quick-pickled cucumbers or a simple Asian-inspired slaw for a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors beautifully. For another great chicken dish, check out this baked lemon rosemary chicken.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
This easy slow cooker Korean chicken dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
Leftovers of this amazing slow cooker Korean chicken are a treasure! Once your delicious Korean chicken slow cooker dinner has cooled down slightly, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will stay good in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently. You can either microwave it until heated through, or for a more even warmth, reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Korean Chicken
What makes this the best slow cooker Korean chicken?
This recipe truly shines because of its balanced flavor profile – a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. Using chicken thighs ensures maximum tenderness, and the slow cooking process allows all the aromatics like garlic and ginger to meld beautifully into the sauce. It’s designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You certainly can, but I recommend using chicken thighs for the most tender and flavorful result. Chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily in a slow cooker. If you do opt for breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness earlier to prevent them from becoming tough.
How do I make my slow cooker Korean chicken spicier or sweeter?
Adjusting the heat and sweetness is simple! For a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of gochujang paste to the sauce mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, increase the honey or maple syrup. Always taste and adjust during the last 30 minutes of cooking to get it just right for your palate.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this dish?
This slow cooker Korean chicken is fantastic served over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. For a more complete meal, consider adding a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette, some steamed broccoli, or even kimchi for an authentic Korean pairing. For another flavorful chicken option, try these buffalo garlic chicken bites.
Variations of Slow Cooker Korean Chicken You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to play with this slow cooker Korean chicken! For those who love a bit more heat, try making a truly spicy slow cooker Korean chicken by increasing the crushed red pepper flakes or adding a bit of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the sauce. If you prefer a milder, sweeter profile, you can easily create a delightfully sweet slow cooker Korean chicken by adding an extra tablespoon or two of honey or even a touch of brown sugar. Another fantastic variation is to swap the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner protein, just be mindful of the cooking time to avoid drying them out. You could also add a tablespoon of gochujang paste to the sauce for an extra layer of authentic Korean flavor! For a different slow cooker experience, you might enjoy this slow cooker beef ramen recipe.
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Slow Cooker Korean Chicken: Amazing 15-Min Prep
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes - 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew that blends tender chicken with vegetables in a savory sauce, perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach or bok choy
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Place chicken pieces in the bottom of the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them.
- Layer carrots, bell peppers, and onion on top of the chicken and sauce.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in spinach or bok choy and cook until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve the Slow Cooker Korean Chicken Stew over cooked rice or quinoa, garnished with green onions.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust spice levels to your preference.
- Serve with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the broth.
- Experiment with adding other aromatics like scallions or extra garlic.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan.
- You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg