There’s something truly comforting about the tantalizing aroma of Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken wafting through the kitchen—a scent that promises a savory feast with minimal effort. I discovered this gem of a recipe during one of those busy weeks when takeout just wouldn’t cut it, and I craved something flavorful yet easy to prepare. The beauty of it lies in its simplicity: toss a few ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
This dish transforms ordinary chicken into tender, juicy pieces bathed in a sweet-tangy sauce with hints of garlic and ginger. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need a quick meal after a long day, this recipe delivers fantastic results with the kind of homemade goodness that leaves fast food in the dust. I can guarantee that each bite will transport you to the robust flavors of Korean BBQ without requiring hours in the kitchen. Ready to stir up some excitement at your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
Why is Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: You simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, eliminating the fuss of lengthy prep time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, ginger, and sweet-tangy sauces ignites your taste buds, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.
Tender Perfection: Slow cooking transforms the chicken into succulent, melt-in-your-mouth morsels that the whole family will love.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in tacos for a delicious twist on classic meals.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or quiet dinners, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein; substitute with thighs for more flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth; use low-sodium for a healthier option.
For the Sauce
• Tamari Soy Sauce – Provides umami flavor; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and heat; substitute with another sweet sauce if necessary.
• Hoisin Sauce – Sweet, tangy flavor profile; maple syrup can be used as an alternative.
• Light Brown Sugar – Sweetener for balance; can substitute with coconut sugar.
• Honey – Natural sweetness; agave syrup serves well as a vegan alternative.
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Tangy acidity; white vinegar works if rice wine vinegar is unavailable.
• Sesame Oil – Offers a distinctive flavor; another neutral oil can be used if needed.
• Turmeric – Adds color and earthy flavor; feel free to omit if not on hand.
• Coarse Black Pepper – Enhances the flavor profile; freshly ground is preferred.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Spice up the dish; adjust based on heat tolerance.
Aromatics & Seasoning
• Garlic (6 cloves, crushed) – Provides aromatic flavor; adjust for intensity based on preference.
• Ginger (1/2 Tbsp chopped, and 1/2 Tbsp minced) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger can be a substitute.
• Salt & Pepper (pinch) – Basic seasoning; adjust to taste.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch & Water (1 Tbsp + 1 Tbsp, for slurry) – Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder can be used as a sub.
For Serving
• Green Onions (1/4 cup chopped) – Adds freshness and crunch; optional garnish.
• Baby Carrots, thinly sliced – Garnish for color and texture.
• Shallots, thinly sliced – Optional garnish that adds a mild onion flavor.
• Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish for extra crunch.
This Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken recipe is sure to be a hit at your next family gathering!
How to Make Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry and season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
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Add Aromatics: Toss in the crushed garlic, chopped ginger, and green onions into the slow cooker to infuse your chicken with an aromatic base.
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Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and cover with the lid. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 5 hours until the chicken is tender.
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Shred Chicken: Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken using two forks and drain any excess liquid. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine tamari soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, light brown sugar, honey, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, minced ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to mix.
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Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce mixture and stir until fully combined.
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Coat the Chicken: Pour the sauce mixture over the shredded chicken in the slow cooker. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is beautifully coated. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high to thicken the sauce.
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Serve Warm: Serve the tender chicken over steamed rice or your favorite noodles, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, sliced shallots, and thinly sliced baby carrots.
Optional: Top with extra green onions for a fresh crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Label them with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed for moisture.
Serving Suggestions: The reheated chicken can be served over rice, noodles, or even in wraps—perfect for quick meals!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken?
There’s nothing quite like complementing a flavorful dish with perfect side options, creating a memorable dining experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice provides a delicate base that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, enhancing every bite.
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Spicy Kimchi: The bold, tangy flavors of homemade or store-bought kimchi add a delightful crunch and heat, making your meal sing with excitement.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette lends freshness and crunch, offering a palate-cleansing contrast to the rich chicken.
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Sesame Noodles: Cold or warm noodles tossed in sesame dressing create a tasty side, perfectly balancing the sweet and spicy notes of the chicken.
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Grilled Veggies: Adding a colorful array of grilled bell peppers and zucchini brings a pleasing texture that complements the tenderness of the chicken.
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Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, slices of garlic bread deliver a warm, buttery crunch to scoop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
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Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage with a hint of sweetness and acidity that pairs wonderfully with the intense flavors of the BBQ chicken.
These delightful accompaniments will elevate your Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken into a feast the whole family will adore!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just pop the slow cooker in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead—mix all the sauce ingredients and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, just let the chicken cook as per the original recipe, adding the sauce for the final 30 minutes to ensure it’s just as delicious as when freshly made. This way, you enjoy a flavorful dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Variations
There’s no limit to how you can personalize this fantastic recipe to suit your cravings and dietary needs.
- Beef or Tofu: Swap chicken with sliced beef or cubed tofu for a delightful change in protein, adding different textures and flavors.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini to elevate the nutritional profile and add vibrant colors to your dish. They’re quick-cooking and will absorb all those amazing flavors!
- Spicy Kick: Elevate the heat by adding fresh chopped chilies or increasing the red pepper flakes for those who love a fiery bite. Just a little bit can make all the difference!
- Fruit Twist: Add pineapple or mango chunks for a sweet and tangy surprise that contrasts beautifully with the savory sauce—perfect for a summer barbecue feel.
- Herb Enhancement: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, giving your dish an aromatic lift and a fresh pop of color at serving time.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in roasted peanuts or sprinkle with sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and a nutty finish that complements the sauce beautifully!
- Low-Carb Option: Serve your dish over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini to create a lower-carb meal option, keeping all the flavors intact.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Play with the levels of sweetness by using less sugar or honey and adding a splash of citrus juice instead. It can create a refreshing balance!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken
- Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking to amplify the savory flavors.
- Perfect Texture: Shred the chicken only after ensuring it is fully cooked (165°F); this prevents any dry, tough pieces.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick after cooking, simply add a splash more chicken broth to achieve your desired thickness.
- Avoid Lumps: When adding the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, whisk it until smooth to avoid any unwanted lumps in your Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken.
- Spice Sensitivity: Test the level of heat with the red pepper flakes; adjust to your family’s taste preferences to keep everyone happy!
Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
For the Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken, boneless skinless chicken breasts work best due to their lean quality and ability to remain moist during cooking. However, if you’re looking for more flavor, go ahead and substitute them with chicken thighs; they’ll add a delicious richness to your dish!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool down before sealing to maintain its flavor and quality. If you enjoy meal prepping, this is a perfect way to ensure you have a tasty option readily available!
Can I freeze this dish, and how?
Yes! To freeze your Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken, let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers, portioning out individual servings if desired. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the containers with the date. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What if my sauce is too thick after cooking?
If you find that the sauce has thickened more than you like, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth to the slow cooker and stir well; continue to cook for an additional minute or two. This will help to loosen the sauce while keeping all that delicious flavor!
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with food allergies?
Very! This Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. If anyone in your family has allergies, make sure to read all labels, especially for sauces, to ensure they’re free from any allergens. If you have members with dietary restrictions, feel free to customize the ingredients to your needs!
What can I do if I don’t have fresh ginger?
If fresh ginger isn’t on hand, ground ginger can be a suitable substitute! Use about 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger for every tablespoon of fresh ginger you need. While the flavors will differ slightly, it will still impart a nice warmth to your Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken.
Savory Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken for Effortless Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry and season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in the crushed garlic, chopped ginger, and green onions into the slow cooker to infuse your chicken with an aromatic base.
- Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and cover with the lid. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 5 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken using two forks and drain any excess liquid. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine tamari soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, light brown sugar, honey, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, minced ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to mix.
- Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce mixture and stir until fully combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the sauce mixture over the shredded chicken in the slow cooker. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is beautifully coated. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high to thicken the sauce.
- Serve Warm: Serve the tender chicken over steamed rice or your favorite noodles, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, sliced shallots, and thinly sliced baby carrots.