The prep for this delicious, 5-ingredient slow cooker succulent balsamic chicken doesn’t get much simpler, and you really can pull everything together in a matter of minutes using chicken thighs, balsamic vinegar, honey, carrots, and baby potatoes.

To make 5 Ingredient Balsamic Chicken in your Slow Cooker or Crockpot, season the chicken, mix the balsamic vinegar and honey, layer the vegetables, pour the sauce, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

You’re going to love this recipe. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for busy days same as Slow Cooker Chicken Pad Thai and 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken Legs. Don’t forget to comment below and let me know how it turns out!

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5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on (approximately 2 pounds / 900g)
• 1 cup (240ml) balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks (about 1 pound / 450g)
• 1 pound (450g) baby potatoes, halved

How To Make 5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by generously seasoning the thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken during cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Mix well to ensure the honey is fully dissolved into the vinegar.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the large carrot chunks and halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the balsamic and honey mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Make sure all pieces are coated for maximum flavor.
5. Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
6. Serve and Garnish: Once done, carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the slow cooker. Serve on a platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Absolutely, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs for your 5 Ingredient Balsamic Chicken recipe. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out faster than thighs. To prevent this, reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness early.

Recipe Tips

• Browning the Chicken First: Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds extra flavor and makes the skin crispier, which is totally worth the extra effort.
• Layering Vegetables: Place the carrots and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious juices from the chicken above. No one likes undercooked veggies, right?
• Balancing Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey slightly. This keeps the balsamic flavor strong without being overpoweringly sweet. It’s all about finding your perfect balance.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for some heat. This variation turns the dish into a spicy delight, perfect for those who love a bit of a kick in their meals.
• Asian Twist: Swap the balsamic vinegar with soy sauce and add some grated ginger. This gives the dish an Asian flair, with a savory and slightly tangy profile that’s different but equally delicious.
• Lemon and Garlic: Replace the honey with the juice of two lemons and add several cloves of garlic. This variation brings a bright, zesty flavor that’s refreshing and pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a handful of capers. This variation brings in Mediterranean flavors that make the dish even more vibrant and exciting, perfect for a themed dinner night.

What To Serve With balsamic Chicken

Serve your balsamic chicken with honey-glazed roasted carrots, truffle parmesan fries, wild mushroom risotto, pomegranate arugula salad, and creamy avocado pasta.

You can also pair this dish with a zesty citrus couscous, caramelized onion tart, or a refreshing watermelon feta salad.

How To Store Leftover balsamic Chicken

In The Fridge:

Store your leftover balsamic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to place the chicken in the container while still slightly warm to avoid condensation. This method keeps the chicken fresh for up to 4 days.

In The Freezer:

You can store the leftover chicken in the freezer for up to 3 months. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

How To Reheat Leftover Balsamic Chicken

Reheat your leftover Balsamic Chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This method ensures the chicken remains moist and flavorful.

Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave for 3-4 minutes on medium power.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken Curry
• Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Shredded Chicken
• Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken