Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Chinese cuisine with this Slow Cooker Crispy Chinese Shredded Chicken recipe. This dish combines succulent chicken with a savory sauce, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly and absorb all the rich flavors.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken thighs: 2 lbs
– Soy sauce: 1/4 cup
– Hoisin sauce: 1/4 cup
– Rice vinegar: 2 tablespoons
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated
– Honey: 2 tablespoons
– Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
– Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (for crisping)
– Scallions: 2, chopped (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds: for garnish

Prep Time

Preparation for this dish takes approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all the ingredients, chopping the garlic and ginger, and preparing the chicken for the slow cooker.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high, depending on your preference. In total, from prep to completion, you can expect this dish to take around 6 hours and 15 minutes on low. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch the next day. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken that can be served with rice or in wraps!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Optionally, you can add garlic powder and onion powder to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Slow Cook

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. Add slices of ginger and garlic cloves. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly before shredding it using two forks.

Step 4: Reduce the Sauce

Transfer the remaining sauce in the slow cooker to a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Crispy Chicken Preparation

Preheat the oven to a high temperature (around 220°C or 425°F). Spread the shredded chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle some of the reduced sauce over the chicken, then place it in the oven.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes until it is crispy and caramelized, stirring halfway through for even crispiness.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer the crispy chicken to a serving plate. Drizzle additional reduced sauce over the top if desired and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts

Chicken thighs are recommended for more flavor and moisture. If using chicken breasts, adjust cooking time to prevent them from drying out.

Note 2: Variations

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the slow cooker for a complete meal.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

Serve the crispy chicken with rice or noodles and additional sauce for extra flavor.

Note 4: Storage Instructions

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results before serving again.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and infused with flavors from the sauce over time, making it ideal for a dish that requires shredding.

Shredding Chicken

After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This technique helps the meat soak up the sauce and enhances its texture.

Crisping in the Oven

To achieve a crispy finish, spread the shredded chicken on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven. This method creates a contrasting texture to the tenderness of the slow-cooked chicken.

Using Sauces and Marinades

Incorporate soy sauce, hoisin, and other marinades to elevate the flavor profile of the chicken, allowing it to absorb a variety of tastes during cooking.

Garnishing

Finish the dish with fresh herbs or green onions for added flavor and color. This simple step enhances presentation and adds freshness to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time to ensure it is thoroughly cooked and tender.

What can I serve with the shredded chicken?

The shredded chicken is versatile and can be served with rice, in wraps, or on salads for a complete meal.

How long can I store leftover shredded chicken?

Leftover shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze the shredded chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken. It’s best to store it in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to reheat the chicken?

The best way to reheat shredded chicken is to use the microwave or heat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Crispy Chinese Shredded Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings a delicious Asian twist to your dinner table. Its ease of preparation and the ability to cook in a slow cooker makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the crispy texture paired with bold flavors, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different serving options!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Serve with Rice or Noodles

Pair the shredded chicken with steamed jasmine rice or chow mein noodles for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Wrap in Lettuce

Use the shredded chicken as a filling for fresh lettuce wraps, adding crunchy vegetables and a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a light snack or appetizer.

Top a Salad

Incorporate the chicken into a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and sesame dressing for a healthy lunch option.

Incorporate in Tacos

Fill soft or hard taco shells with the shredded chicken, topped with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fusion twist.

Combine with Stir-Fried Vegetables

Stir-fry colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas together with the chicken for an nutrient-packed meal.

Stuffed Peppers

Use the chicken as a stuffing for bell peppers along with rice or quinoa, bake until the peppers are tender for a delicious and unique dish.

Sandwich or Wrap

Make a tasty sandwich or wrap using crusty bread or tortillas, complemented with your favorite sauces and fresh veggies for a quick lunch.