Crock Pot Balsamic Chicken

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed chicken dinner, this Crock Pot Balsamic Chicken is a must-try. With just a few everyday ingredients and 5 minutes of prep, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and come back to tender, juicy chicken with a rich balsamic glaze that tastes like you’ve been in the kitchen all day.

This one’s a lifesaver for those chaotic weeknights — minimal work, maximum payoff.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 5-minute prep – Truly, it takes longer to decide what to watch on Netflix.
• One pot magic – Everything goes into the slow cooker and simmers away while you get on with life.
• Simple ingredients – Pantry staples and fresh herbs come together for bold, savory flavor.
• Flexible cuts – Works great with bone-in or boneless chicken breasts or thighs.
• Perfect for meal prep – Leftovers are even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken: Bone-in or boneless chicken breasts or thighs work great.
• Balsamic vinegar: Use whatever you have on hand — no need for the fancy stuff.
• Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tang.
• Chicken stock: Just enough to create a flavorful cooking base.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves are best, but you can sub dried if needed.
• Butter (optional): A little goes a long way in keeping lean chicken moist.
• Herbs & spices: Rosemary, basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

How to Make Crock Pot Balsamic Chicken

Step 1:
In a small bowl, mix your dried herbs, salt, and pepper.

Step 2:
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, stir together the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, chicken stock, and garlic.

Step 3:
Season your chicken generously with the herb mixture.

Step 4:
Place the chicken in the Crock Pot (breast side down if bone-in), then pour the balsamic mixture over the top. Add butter if using.

Step 5:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–6 hours, depending on your cut. The chicken should be tender and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Once chicken hits 165°F, it’s done.
• Add a touch of butter if you’re using skinless chicken — it helps keep things juicy.
• No need to submerge the chicken completely in liquid — it’ll steam beautifully.
• Prefer thicker sauce? After cooking, remove the lid and let it simmer on high for 15–20 minutes to reduce, or transfer liquid to a saucepan and simmer until thickened.

What to Serve with Balsamic Chicken

This balsamic chicken is delicious with just about anything! Try it with:

• Mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower
• Roasted vegetables
• A simple green salad
• Steamed rice or quinoa
• Garlic green beans
• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! This works beautifully with boneless or bone-in thighs. Just adjust cook time slightly — thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy even after longer cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken?
You can, but the cooking time will increase. Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F. (And for safety, avoid starting with frozen chicken in older slow cookers.)

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely. If a recipe calls for fresh herbs, use 1/3 the amount if using dried. If it calls for dried and you want to use fresh, triple it. Example: 1 tsp dried oregano = 1 tbsp fresh oregano.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
You can! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with natural release. You may need to reduce the sauce afterward to thicken it up.

Storage and Reheating

• Store: Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Balsamic Chicken is a keeper — easy enough for busy weeknights, yet flavorful and satisfying enough for Sunday dinner. Whether you serve it over rice, next to roasted veggies, or tucked into a sandwich, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making on repeat.

Also try these CrockPot Chicken recipe:-

• Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta
• Crockpot Chicken and Biscuits 
• Crockpot Mexican Chicken