Easy Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Recipe

Discover tender, flavorful Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken made with a savory blend of spices and natural sauces for an easy, delicious meal any day. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky notes, all simmered low and slow in your crockpot to transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering comfort food. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or simply craving an effortless dinner with an Asian twist, this dish will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: Just mix the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the magic for hours, freeing up your time.
• Rich and balanced flavors: The savory soy and sweet apple cider vinegar merge beautifully with natural gelling agents to create deep, sticky sauce.
• Tender, juicy chicken: Slow cooking locks in moisture, making every bite irresistibly soft and flavorful.
• Family-friendly appeal: The mildly spicy marinade pleases kids and adults alike, perfect for all taste buds.
• Versatile serving options: Delicious over rice, wrapped in lettuce, or tossed with noodles for endless meal ideas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken recipe uses simple ingredients that work together to create a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. Each item adds a layer of depth or texture that ensures the dish stays exciting and satisfying.

• Chicken thighs: Skinless, boneless thighs keep the meat succulent and absorb the marinade beautifully.
• Soy sauce (natural): Provides the essential savory base with authentic umami.
• Brown sugar (natural): Adds a mild sweetness that caramelizes into the sauce as it cooks.
• Apple cider vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that balances the sweet and salty flavors.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth and warmth.
• Ginger (natural): Grated ginger gives a gentle spice and freshness uplift.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Chopped finely, it lends a smoky richness without overpowering the dish.
• Sesame oil (natural): Just a touch for nutty aroma and silky finish.
• Red pepper flakes: For that gentle kick of heat to brighten the flavor profile.
• Green onions: Chopped for garnish and added crunch when serving.
• Natural gelling agent: Used sparingly to thicken and give the sauce that perfect cling on the chicken.

Variations for Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to tailor the heat level, swap proteins, or add more veggies, let your taste preferences guide you!

• Spicier kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot chili paste to bring heat.
• Vegetarian-friendly option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• More smoky flavor: Toss in some smoked turkey slices for a deeper savory essence.
• Veggie boost: Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for color and texture.
• Sweet alternative: Use grape juice instead of apple cider vinegar to create a softer sweet-tart balance.

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

In a medium bowl, combine natural soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of natural gelling agent. Mix well until the sugar begins to dissolve and the sauce is fully blended. This marinade will infuse the chicken with layers of flavor while helping create a thick, glossy coating.

Step 2: Combine chicken and smoked turkey bacon

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped smoked turkey bacon evenly over the chicken. This adds a smoky aroma and savory notes that complement the sweet-spicy sauce.

Step 3: Pour in marinade and stir gently

Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken and smoked turkey bacon. Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir and coat all the pieces well, ensuring the flavors penetrate every bite. This step is key for an even distribution of delicious taste.

Step 4: Slow cook with love

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is fall-apart tender. The slow cooking process melds the spices and sauces together, producing that signature sticky, rich texture perfect for Korean BBQ.

Step 5: Final touches

Before serving, give the chicken a good stir to coat it in the luscious sauce one last time. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and mild crunch that balances the tender meat beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

• Use skinless thighs: They stay juicy without excess fat, making clean cooking easier and tastier.
• Low and slow: Cooking on low preserves moisture and builds flavor better than high heat in the slow cooker.
• Trim the bacon finely: This ensures smoky bits disperse evenly without overwhelming the dish.
• Adjust sweetness last: Taste the sauce near the end and add extra brown sugar or grape juice if needed.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes off heat before serving to let the sauce thicken naturally.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

Garnishes

Add sliced green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro to elevate the dish with freshness and crunch. These simple touches make the presentation pop and introduce contrasts in texture.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, sweet potato noodles, or crunchy fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping. Light pickled vegetables also complement the richness and add a bright contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken in warm wraps with crisp veggies and a drizzle of spicy mayo made from plant-based yogurt and sriracha natural flavoring. Alternatively, layer it over a vibrant Asian slaw or toss into bibimbap bowls for an all-in-one experience bursting with color and taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making next-day meals just as delicious.

Freezing

Cool the chicken completely, then freeze in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to separate portions for easy thawing and reheating later.

Reheating

Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast can work if you prefer leaner meat; just reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid drying it out.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can simmer the chicken and marinade gently in a covered pot on the stove over low heat, but watch closely to prevent burning and add liquid as needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from red pepper flakes which can easily be adjusted up or down according to your taste preference.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap chicken and smoked turkey bacon for firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce as indicated in the ingredients.

How thick is the sauce supposed to be?

The sauce should be sticky enough to coat the chicken nicely but not overly thick. The natural gelling agent helps achieve this perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver packed with bold, irresistible flavors and tender, juicy meat. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that feels special every time. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!

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