Monday, September 30, 2013

College "family dinner" Night

Okay, so something you should know about me is that I love to cook, but am certainly not the greatest chef. I think the feeling I get after making a decent meal is one of the most fun feelings out there! I truly believe that pinterest can turn anyone into a "half decent chef". Although it isn't the most fun compliment to get when one of my 20-something year old friends calls me a "housewife", I secretly enjoy it. My roommate was appreciative of tonight's meal as well and said she was a huge fan! I was able to experience that feeling I love oh so much for the first time in a week (because I have been mega lazy). 

I was scanning the yummy looking recipes on pinterest the other night like I normally do and came across a gem. Of course when I see the words "crock-pot" I immediately stop scrolling and see if it would be worth a shot... and this beauty made the cut. So if you are looking for something to make before you head off to classes (and/or work) and come home to smelling fabulous, this is your kind of meal. Try it on for size... 

Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot
Cook Time: 4 or 6-7 hours

Ingredients

4-6chicken breasts
1 cpacked brown sugar
2/3 cvinegar (i used apple cider vinegar)
1/4 clemon-lime soda
2-3 Tbspminced garlic
2 Tbspsoy sauce
1 tspfresh ground pepper
2 Tbspcorn starch
2 Tbspwater
pinchred pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1
 Spray slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken (frozen, thawed or fresh) inside slow cooker.
2
 Mix together brown sugar, vinegar, soda, garlic, soy sauce, and pepper together. Pour over chicken
3
 Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4
 Take chicken pieces out of slow cooker (mine basically fell apart) and pour remaining sauce into saucepan.
5
 Place saucepan over high heat. Mix together corn starch and water, pour into saucepan, and mix well.
6
 Let sauce come to a boil and boil for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to thicken and turns into a glaze.
7
 Remove from heat and let sit for a minute or two (it will continue to thicken as it cools down).
8
 Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired. This can be served over rice, noodles or baked potato!

**I opted out of the red pepper flakes... but they are serious when they say the gravy can be served over potatoes. What college girl doesn't have instant mash potatoes hidden away in the kitchen somewhere. I whipped up some instant tatters and drizzles some of the glaze on top of those and yes, it was to die for. 

Let me know your thoughts if you try it out yourself!