Dinner doesn't need to be complicated to taste good. All you need is 3 ingredients!

 

Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Brown Sugar Italian Chicken

Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Brown Sugar Italian Chicken is a great example of the power of simplicity in the kitchen. Although this dish doesn't have a distinct culinary origin, it exemplifies how contemporary cooking techniques may provide complex flavors with few ingredients and little effort. Those who value speed without compromising flavor will find this meal to be ideal. The slow-cooked chicken keeps its moist, tender flesh while the Italian dressing provides an acidic, herbaceous foundation and brown sugar adds a lovely sweetness that caramelizes delightfully. If you're short on time during the week or just want something easy to eat, this is a great option.

The luscious glaze that coats the juicy chicken is a perfect complement to any number of side dishes. Given its Italian origins, it would be perfect drizzled over fettuccine or spaghetti cooked to al dente and tossed with a light butter or olive oil sauce. A refreshing green salad or a combination of roasted Mediterranean veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini may provide a healthy edge to the meal. A piece of crusty bread will come in handy for mopping up that delicious sauce.

4-Servings Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Chicken with Just Three Ingredients

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 cup pasta sauce
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• Optional: onions

Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts in the bottom.
2. Combine the brown sugar and Italian dressing in a medium bowl and whisk to combine.
3. Ensure that every piece of chicken in the slow cooker is coated before pouring the liquid over it.
4. Turn your slow cooker down to low heat and cover. Allow 5 to 6 hours of cooking time, or 3 to 4 hours on high if you're a little rushed.
5. After the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, it is ready to be transferred to a serving plate.
6. If you'd like, you may thicken the leftover sauce by simmering it over medium heat until it reaches the consistency you like.
7. Before serving, drizzle the sauce over the chicken to provide another layer of flavor.

Tips and Variations

• Add balsamic vinegar or fresh lemon juice with the brown sugar and Italian dressing for a tangier edge.
• Add some red pepper flakes for a little heat if you want.
• For a leaner choice, go for skinless chicken breasts. However, if you want it extra juicy, try it with skin-on chicken thighs instead.
• Change the cooking time based on the heat intensity of the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is cooked through before you serve it.
• Put any leftovers in a sealed container and put them in the fridge. They are delicious on their own or shredded quickly for tacos, and they are a great addition to salads and sandwiches.

Make no mistake: this recipe will prove that you can have tasty, home-cooked dinners without sacrificing time or effort. Now that the slow cooker is taking care of all the work, you can relax and enjoy the evening—maybe even with a bottle of your favorite Italian wine. Have fun!