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how to make slow cooker sweet chili chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken

Before diving into the goodness that is slow cooker sweet chili chicken, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with this dish. It’s vibrant and zesty, so you’ll want sides that either complement or contrast those flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: This adds an essential nutty flavor.
  • 1 small sweet yellow onion thinly sliced: Onions contribute natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple diced: Pineapple brings a tropical flair that’s hard to beat.
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay moist and flavorful through the cooking process.
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced: A must-have for that aromatic base.
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger root: It offers a zesty kick perfect for this dish.
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste these enhance all the flavors.
  • 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth without being overly salty.
  • 1 cup Thai-style sweet chili sauce: The star of the show providing sweet, spicy, and sticky goodness.
  • 1 large red bell pepper thinly sliced into strips: This brings color and crunch
  • 1 pound dried lo mein noodles: A delicious noodle option to serve with the chicken.
  • Optional for garnish: Thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for that finishing touch.

Equipment

  • Bowl
  • Slow cooker

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
  1. Begin by trimming the chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Slice the onion, bell pepper, and pineapple. The fresher the ingredients, the better your dish will taste.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
  1. In a bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame oil. This combination serves as the sauce base for the chicken.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
  1. In your slow cooker, layer the sliced onions on the bottom. Follow with the chicken pieces, then add the bell pepper strips and pineapple chunks on top.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce
  1. Pour your sauce mixture over everything in the slow cooker. Ensure that the chicken and vegetables are well-coated.
Step 5: Slow Cook
  1. Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for about 3-4 hours. Just remember, cooking on low usually gives better flavors.
Step 6: Cook the Noodles
  1. When the chicken is nearing its finish, prepare your lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
  1. Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, shred it slightly with forks if desired, mixing in the sauce. Serve over the lo mein noodles and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 28gFat: 10gFiber: 2gSugar: 12g

Notes

- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and bell peppers add a burst of flavor. Canned variants don’t hold a candle to the fresh stuff.
 - Adjust to Taste: If you like it spicier, consider adding red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more chili sauce.
 - Let it Cook: Resist the urge to open the slow cooker too often. Each time you lift the lid, you release heat and extend cooking time.
 - Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine cornstarch and water, then add it during the last hour of cooking.
 - Garnish Creatively: Don't skimp on the garnishes. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute great flavor. Toasted sesame seeds add that perfect crunch!

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