Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

Sweet, savory, and fall-apart tender, this Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken is a flavor-packed, fuss-free dinner you’ll want to make on repeat. Juicy chicken thighs are simmered low and slow in a rich Korean-style BBQ sauce made with soy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or on a sandwich—it’s as versatile as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Set It & Forget It – Let the slow cooker do all the work.
Bold Korean Flavor – Sweet, spicy, and deeply savory sauce.
Tender & Juicy – Chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft.
Great for Meal Prep – Makes plenty and stores beautifully.
Versatile Serving Options – Rice bowls, wraps, tacos, sandwiches—you name it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste – adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening sauce)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 shredded carrot or ½ cup matchstick carrots
• ½ cup chopped onions or bell peppers
• Pineapple chunks for a sweet twist

Tools You’ll Need

• Slow cooker
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs or forks (for shredding)
• Serving spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and gochujang until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
Pour the sauce over the top, making sure the chicken is evenly coated.
Add any optional veggies at this stage, if using.

Step 3: Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water. Stir into the sauce in the slow cooker.
Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat.
Let cook for another 10–15 minutes on high, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Spoon the chicken into bowls or wraps.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.
Add a squeeze of lime or serve with kimchi for extra zing.

Tips for Success
Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicy and flavorful even after hours of cooking.
Adjust the Heat – Add more or less gochujang depending on your spice level.
Double the Sauce – For extra saucy servings or rice bowls.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch – It gives the sauce that perfect glossy finish.
Freeze Leftovers – Great for busy weeks and last-minute meals.

Serving Suggestions
Over Steamed Rice – Classic and comforting.
In Lettuce Wraps – Light, fresh, and low-carb.
With Noodles – Serve over soba, udon, or ramen noodles.
In Tacos – Try Asian fusion tacos with slaw and spicy mayo.
As a Sandwich – Pile onto buns with pickled veggies and extra sauce.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium-low with a splash of water.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, but thighs are juicier and less likely to dry out during slow cooking.
2. What is gochujang and where can I find it?
   It’s a Korean chili paste with sweet, spicy, and umami flavor. Available in the international aisle or Asian markets.
3. Can I make it less spicy?
   Use less gochujang or swap it with ketchup and a pinch of chili powder for mild heat.
4. Can I use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
   Yes—cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, natural release for 10 more.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, all in one incredibly easy dish. It’s the kind of recipe that feels comforting yet exciting, and it’s flexible enough to fit any weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

Set it, forget it, and enjoy the bold, delicious results—don’t forget to share your creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6–7 hours on low
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 6):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 14g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 520mg

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