Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs
If you’re searching for an easy slow cooker chicken recipe that delivers big comfort with minimal effort, this brown sugar chicken is about to become a family favorite. My sister brought this to our Valentine’s dinner, and my husband hasn’t stopped talking about it since the chicken is so tender it literally falls right off the bone.
This classic slow cooker brown sugar chicken thighs recipe combines sweet and savory flavors using just a handful of pantry staples. Bone-in chicken thighs cook low and slow in a rich brown sugar soy glaze, creating a glossy, caramelized sauce that tastes like something straight out of an old-fashioned church cookbook. No fancy steps, no prep stress just dependable, cozy comfort food made effortlessly in the crockpot.
Perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a set-it-and-forget-it chicken dinner, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can still deliver unforgettable flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Chicken:
Only 4 ingredients budget-friendly and pantry-ready
Fall-apart tender chicken thighs every single time
Sweet-savory flavor the whole family loves
Minimal prep, no browning required
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers reheat beautifully
Ingredients:
3 to 3½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (6–8 pieces)
1 cup packed light brown sugar
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1½ teaspoons garlic powder)
Directions:
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat, leaving most of the skin intact for flavor.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic until a thick, glossy sauce forms.
Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker, skin side up.
Pour the brown sugar sauce evenly over the chicken, coating each piece.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2½–3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F and is fork-tender.
(Optional) For extra caramelization, broil the cooked chicken for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Skim excess fat from the sauce and reduce slightly if desired.
Spoon sauce generously over the chicken and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
This sweet and savory slow cooker chicken pairs beautifully with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed white rice
Green beans or sweet corn
Biscuits or dinner rolls for soaking up the sauce
Keep the sides simple this dish shines as classic comfort food.
Variations & Tips:
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a sweet-heat twist
Stir in apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for extra balance
Add sliced onions under the chicken for deeper flavor
Swap thighs for bone-in drumsticks using the same cook time
