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Slow cooker firecracker chicken brings all the bold and fiery flavors of your favorite takeout right to your own kitchen with minimal fuss. This dish packs spicy heat, a touch of sweetness, and creamy richness that will have everyone fighting for seconds. Toss it over veggies, a big bowl of rice, or noodles for a satisfying weeknight meal.
The first time I made this for a game night potluck, I had neighbors lining up for seconds and everyone asked for the recipe on the spot. It has stayed in heavy rotation on our menu ever since.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: Fresh chicken gives the most tender result look for firm and even pieces when buying
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture use low sodium for better control over seasoning
- Hot sauce: Brings the fire choose Frank's or your favorite hot sauce for reliable flavor
- Tomato sauce: Rounds out the sauce look for a smooth, plain variety with no added herbs
- Brown sugar: Adds balanced sweetness choose dark brown sugar for a richer note
- Red pepper flakes: Provides extra kick crush fresh flakes if you want spicier results
- Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce mix with water to avoid lumps and create a silky finish
- Heavy cream: Brings everything together with a creamy texture add in the last half hour to prevent curdling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Cube the boneless skinless chicken breast into uniform bite-sized pieces This ensures even cooking and juicy results
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a bowl whisk together chicken broth hot sauce tomato sauce brown sugar red pepper flakes and a slurry of cornstarch with water Make sure the sugar dissolves fully and everything is well combined
- Start Cooking:
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour your sauce mixture over it Cover with a lid and cook on high for three to four hours or on low for six to eight hours The slow gentle cooking makes the chicken melt-in-your-mouth tender
- Finish with Cream:
- In the last thirty to forty five minutes of cooking gently stir in the heavy cream This will thicken the sauce and give it a beautiful glossy finish Let it heat through so everything melds together perfectly
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I always look forward to swirling in the heavy cream at the end I love how it transforms the sauce from spicy and sharp into something silky and almost dangerously addictive A family birthday dinner with this dish once got so competitive that the bowl was scraped clean
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days I find the flavors deepen overnight For freezing only store the chicken and sauce before adding cream to avoid a grainy texture Thaw in the fridge before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap boneless thighs for breast if you like darker richer meat For less heat choose a mild hot sauce or add extra tomato sauce For a dairy free version skip the cream or try coconut cream for a twist
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Serving Suggestions
Serve over fluffy jasmine rice or your favorite noodles For a low carb option try spiralized zucchini or roasted cauliflower Add crisp steamed broccoli on the side or sprinkle with scallions for freshness
Cultural Notes
While inspired by Asian takeout traditions firecracker chicken is a true American fusion dish It combines comforting slow cooker convenience with those addictive spicy sweet flavors that have taken off in restaurants coast to coast
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to lower the heat. Adding extra cream or tomato sauce can also mellow the spice.
- → What sides pair well with firecracker chicken?
Rice, noodles, or steamed veggies are excellent choices. The sauce complements a wide range of grains and greens.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze the chicken without the cream to maintain the best texture. Add cream when reheating for a fresh finish.
- → Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs offer extra juiciness and richness to the final dish and can be swapped in seamlessly.
- → How do I reheat this dish?
Warm leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a bit of broth or cream as needed to keep the sauce smooth and moist.