Description

Craving a savory, slightly sweet dish that’s elegant yet effortless? Slow Cooker Balsamic Glazed Chicken is your answer! This delightful recipe transforms tender chicken breasts into a flavorful masterpiece, coated in a rich balsamic-honey glaze with juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, special dinners, or meal prep, this dish delivers sophisticated, Mediterranean-inspired flavors with the ease of a slow cooker

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4, ~1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that absorbs the balsamic glaze beautifully.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs for juicier meat, or tofu for vegetarian (adjust cooking time to 4–5 hours on low for tofu).
Balsamic Vinegar (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides a tangy, slightly sweet base for the glaze with rich depth.
- Substitutions: Red wine vinegar with a touch of sugar, or pomegranate juice for a fruitier twist (less tangy).
Honey (¼ cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweetness to balance the vinegar’s acidity.
- Substitutions: Maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the glaze with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste.
Dried Thyme (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds earthy, herbaceous notes that complement the balsamic.
- Substitutions: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp), dried rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and glaze.
Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved):
- Why it’s important: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Substitutions: Grape tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
Fresh Basil (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Provides a fresh, aromatic finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Fresh parsley, oregano, or omit.

Tip: Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor, and choose fresh, firm cherry tomatoes to maintain their shape during cooking.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well-combined.
Tip: Warm the honey slightly if it’s thick to help it blend smoothly with the vinegar.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
Pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
Scatter 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes on top of the chicken.
Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (165°F/74°C internally).
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the chicken breasts and transfer to a serving platter or plates, whole or sliced.
Stir the sauce and tomatoes in the slow cooker to combine, then spoon over the chicken for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped basil.
Serve hot alongside cooked rice (white, brown, or wild) or roasted vegetables (like zucchini or asparagus).
Tip: If the glaze is too thin, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer on the stovetop for 5–10 minutes to thicken, or cook uncovered on high in the slow cooker for 15 minutes.