Here’s a complete, reliable slow-cooker version of that “take-out favorite” you’re hinting at — Sweet & Sticky Brown Sugar Chicken, inspired by popular Chinese-style dishes.
🍯 Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Chicken (Takeout-Style)
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 lbs diced chicken breast or thighs
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional but tasty)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, optional)
Optional add-ins
- Bell peppers, onion, or pineapple chunks
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Sesame seeds + green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients
Place diced chicken in the slow cooker.
Add brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Cook
- Low for 4–5 hours
or - High for 2–3 hours
3. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you want a glossy, takeout-style sauce:
- Mix cornstarch + water to make a slurry.
- Stir into the slow cooker in the last 20–30 minutes.
- Let it thicken.
Serve It With
- Steamed rice
- Stir-fried veggies
- Egg noodles
- Or in a lettuce wrap for a lighter option
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken quickly before adding to the slow cooker (optional).
- If the sauce is too sweet, add a splash more soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon/lime.