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Dump-And-Go Crockpot Sweet Chili Chicken - Easy, Saucy, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2–2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
  • 1 cup Thai-style sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for extra gloss and sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili-garlic paste (optional, for heat)
  • Juice of 1 lime (plus extra wedges for serving)
  • 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch + 2 teaspoons water (optional, to thicken sauce)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • To serve: cooked jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
  • Garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer if possible.
  2. Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, sriracha (if using), lime juice, and water or broth.
  3. Season and pour: Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the top, making sure it coats the chicken well.
  4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 3.5–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Breasts cook faster than thighs.
  5. Shred the chicken: Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the sauce.
  6. Thicken (optional): If you want a glossier, clingy sauce, whisk cornstarch with water, stir it into the slow cooker, and cook on High for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Taste and adjust: Add more lime for brightness, a splash of soy for salt, or honey for sweetness.
  8. Serve: Spoon over hot rice or grains. Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro. Add lime wedges on the side.