Ingredients
Chicken
- 3-4 chicken breasts (bone in or boneless, skin on or skin off, or chicken thighs)
Seasoning Mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
- 1/8 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Sauce and Add-ins
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (loosely packed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the 3-4 chicken breasts into the crock pot or Instant Pot, ensuring they are evenly spread out for even cooking.
- Mix and Apply Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine dried basil, oregano, thyme, dried parsley, minced fresh rosemary, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Season the chicken breasts thoroughly on one side with half of this spice mixture, then flip each piece and season the other side evenly.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chicken stock, brown sugar, and minced garlic in a separate small bowl. Pour this mixture over the seasoned chicken in the crock pot. Add the butter on top to melt during cooking, adding richness to the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh herb flavor. Serve warm with your choice of sides.
Notes
- You can use bone-in or boneless chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; cooking times may vary slightly.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes amount to control the spiciness.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after cooking and simmer the sauce on the stovetop to reduce.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 0 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American