If you’re craving a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Easy Crock Pot Maple Dijon Chicken is perfect for you. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a flavorful, tender chicken dish that pairs beautifully with any side. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the stress. Dive into this simple recipe and enjoy a meal that’s bursting with sweet and tangy goodness.
Steps
- Season the chicken drumsticks with garlic salt and freshly cracked pepper. Place the seasoned drumsticks into a slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the drumsticks in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well coated. Set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for approximately 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked.
Ingredients
- 8 drumsticks, skin removed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1420 kcal | Carbohydrates: 70 g | Protein: 190 g | Fat: 36 g | Saturated Fat: 10 g | Cholesterol: 872 mg | Sodium: 3860 mg | Sugar: 48 g
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may cook slightly faster due to their smaller size.
- Is there an alternative to using maple syrup?
- You can replace maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste of the dish.
- Can I prepare this dish in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to brown the chicken, then cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes, followed by a natural release.
- What side dishes pair well with this chicken recipe?
- Shredded Brussels sprouts with prosciutto or a simple green salad are great accompaniments. You can also serve it with rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- How do I store leftovers, and how long will they keep?
- Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the tenderness of the meat.
Tips
- Remove the Skin for Better Flavor Absorption: Taking the skin off the drumsticks allows the marinade to penetrate the meat better, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Blend the Sauce Thoroughly: Ensure that the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard are well combined before pouring over the chicken to achieve a consistent taste throughout.
- Evenly Coat the Chicken: Make sure the drumsticks are fully covered with the sauce in the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Use a Reliable Slow Cooker: Consider using a programmable slow cooker that automatically switches to warm after cooking, preventing overcooking and keeping your dish at the perfect temperature.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (e.g., 6 Quart Hamilton Beach Set ‘n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker)
