Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken

Every time I prepare Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken, I’m reminded of those cozy evenings spent with family, where the aroma of something delicious bubbling away fills the air. It’s more than just a meal; it’s the experience of watching everyone gather around the table, eager to dig into a plate of succulent chicken, perfectly glazed with a sweet and savory tamari sauce. I fondly recall the first time I made this dish—a last-minute decision during a busy week when I needed something scrumptious yet simple. The result exceeded all expectations, and it quickly became a family favorite.

On those chilly nights or even during the busiest weekdays, this recipe never fails to satisfy. There’s something magical about the way the chicken absorbs the flavors of the marinade, transforming it into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. You’ll come home to a deliciously rich meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate.

I love serving this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a fresh salad to balance the savory notes. If you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply treat yourself on a weeknight, this Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken is the ideal choice. Trust me; once you make it, it will quickly find its way into your regular dinner rotation!

Ingredient List for Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The key players like chicken, tamari, and Chinese 5-spice powder come together harmoniously, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also satisfying. Each element complements the others, ensuring a well-rounded and flavorful meal.

• 8 boneless chicken thighs – The star of the dish, these chicken thighs are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up all the flavors of the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon Chinese 5 spice powder – A fragrant blend that infuses the chicken with warmth and depth, enhancing its natural flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, this oil adds richness to the dish.
• 2 white onions – Chopped and laid beneath the chicken, they caramelize beautifully, adding sweetness.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Provides moisture and flavor, ensuring the chicken remains succulent.
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar – Adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
• 1/3 cup tamari – A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, it delivers a deeper umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar – A natural sweetener that enhances the glaze while adding a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes – Provides a gentle kick, elevating the flavor profile of the dish.
• 1 bay leaf – Adds depth of flavor during cooking, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1/2 cup pea pods – Bright and crunchy, they add freshness and color to the finished dish.
• 2 scallions – Sliced and used for garnish, they add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.

Putting Together Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken

Let’s dive into the wonderful process of creating Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken. The steps are simple, and I promise the result will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen. With just a little prep work and the magic of the slow cooker, you’ll have a flavorful meal that brings everyone together.

1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with the Chinese 5-spice powder. This blend will infuse the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors. Make sure to coat each piece evenly for the best flavor.

2. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. This step not only adds flavor but also locks in the juices, keeping the chicken moist during cooking.

3. Now, it’s time to prepare your slow cooker. Lay the chopped white onions at the bottom of the slow cooker pot. The onions will soften and sweeten as they cook, enriching the overall dish.

4. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the onions, ensuring they’re arranged evenly. The layering helps the chicken absorb the flavors from the onions and the sauce.

5. In a bowl, whisk together the low-sodium chicken broth, rice vinegar, tamari, coconut sugar, red chili flakes, and the bay leaf. This mixture will be poured over the chicken and onions, creating a luscious sauce that will envelop everything in flavor.

6. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Make sure all the pieces are well coated. The broth will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks.

7. Cover the slow cooker with its lid, setting it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to develop more deeply.

8. Once the cooking time is up, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. To finish, add the pea pods to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 10 minutes. They should be bright green and tender-crisp.

9. Finally, serve the Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken topped with sliced scallions for a fresh touch. The garnish not only adds color but also a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

Customization Ideas

Exploring ways to make Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken your own can be an exciting adventure! Here are some fantastic ideas to customize this dish to suit your tastes.

• Change the protein: You can substitute chicken with other proteins like tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option.
• Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition and color. Just toss them in when adding the pea pods.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, feel free to add more red chili flakes or even a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.
• Try different grains: Serve the dish over quinoa or farro instead of rice for a unique twist and added texture.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with different sauces or marinades, like teriyaki or sweet and sour, to give the dish a fresh taste.
• Garnish creatively: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can add a refreshing touch to your dish. Consider adding them just before serving.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken can be as delightful as preparing it! Here are some wonderful ideas to enhance your meal experience:

• Over rice: A classic pairing, serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With noodles: Toss the chicken with your favorite noodles for a delicious twist. Consider adding some sautéed vegetables for extra crunch.
• Fresh salads: Serve the chicken on a bed of crisp greens for a lighter meal option, adding the warm ingredients to slightly wilt the greens.
• Casual gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Set it on the table with sides and let everyone help themselves.
• Meal prep: Portion out leftovers for lunch the next day. It makes for an easy, satisfying meal that will keep you energized!
• Seasonal sides: Pair with seasonal vegetables like roasted squash in the fall or fresh green beans in the summer for a balanced meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken is a delightful recipe that combines effortless preparation with incredible flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. I encourage you to try this dish and experience the joy it brings to your table. You won’t be disappointed!

Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Tamari Glazed Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that's perfect for easy weeknight dinners. With tender chicken, a rich glaze, and effortless preparation, it's sure to become a favorite in your home. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 pieces Boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon Chinese 5 spice powder
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 2 pieces White onions Roughly chopped
• 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/3 cup Rice vinegar
• 1/3 cup Tamari
• 1 tablespoon Coconut sugar
• 1 teaspoon Red chili flakes
• 1 piece Bay leaf
• 1/2 cup Pea pods
• 2 pieces Scallions White and green parts, sliced

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Slow Cooker

Method

 

1. Season the chicken thighs with the Chinese 5-spice powder.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until browned on both sides, 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Lay the white onions in the bottom of your slow cooker pot, and place the chicken pieces on top.
4. Whisk the chicken broth, rice vinegar, tamari, coconut sugar, red chili flakes, and bay leaf together and pour over the chicken.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. When the chicken is done, add the pea pods and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until soft.
6. Serve topped with the scallions.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
• Serving suggestion: Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the marinade a day in advance for deeper flavor.

Previous PostPasta Puttanesca

Next Post Sheet Pan Curry Chicken and Vegetables

Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.