Slow Cooker Hoisin Chicken
An effortless, flavor-forward meal featuring tender chicken in a sweet-savory hoisin sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds)
- 1 cup hoisin sauce Use a good-quality brand for best flavor
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Low-sodium is recommended
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic paste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger in a pinch)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water + 1/2 chicken bouillon cube)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional; for thickening)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each breast is coated.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F and is tender.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the chicken sliced or shredded over rice, and sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
You can swap chicken thighs for more fat and flavor; adjust cook time. Add veggies like carrots or bell peppers in the last 1–2 hours. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.