Indulge your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Chicken! This delectable dish combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tangy punch of Dijon mustard, creating a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements tender, juicy chicken thighs. Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of this savory delight wafting through your kitchen—it's the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself! Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or simply treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to whip up this easy, yet impressive dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better sauce adhesion.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and create a smooth, glossy sauce.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Pour the maple mustard sauce evenly over the chicken thighs, using a spatula or spoon to ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat, cooking for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken thighs and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Optional: For a thicker sauce, transfer the remaining liquid to a saucepan and simmer on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes until reduced and slightly thickened.
- Spoon the reduced sauce over the chicken thighs before serving, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Prep Your Chicken: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the sauce adhere better and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously to elevate the taste of the dish.
- Whisk the Sauce Well: For a perfectly blended sauce, whisk the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until smooth. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the chicken in the slow cooker, arrange them in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less tender chicken.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for 6 hours allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and flavorful. Resist the urge to turn up the heat for quicker results!
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer it on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes until it reduces and thickens.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish, making it even more appealing when serving.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 365kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
