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Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken

Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken

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If you’re tired of the same old dinner recipes, then this Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken is well worth making! It’s perfectly spicy and delicious! You don’t need to order takeout to have some delicious chicken!

Overhead view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken over white rice in a white bowl.

This Slow Cooker firecracker chicken recipe is made from real fresh chicken, nothing frozen here! So crispy and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. An easy dinner option that the whole family will love!

Overhead view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken in a crock pot.

Have you ever taken a bite out of chicken that made your mouth feel like a firecracker? This Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken is literally an explosion in your mouth. Of course, it’s not too spicy, but it does have a nice kick to it! This chicken is the great main course because then you can make your favorite sides with it! 

Close up view of a wooden spoon removing a serving of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Firecracker Chicken Recipe

  • Quick recipe: Unlike other recipes, this one is super quick. In no time, you can have this chicken made, we’re talking prep time is 15 minutes, and it cooks in the slow cooker for 4 hours. 
  • Spicy: If you’re tired of recipes that don’t give you any spice, then you’ll love this perfectly spicy dish! 
  • Perfect main course: Struggling to figure out what to make for dinner? This recipe is the perfect main course! 
Close up view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken in a crock pot

Ingredients Needed for Firecracker Chicken Recipe

Check the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and How to make Firecracker Chicken. 

Overhead view of the ingredients needed to complete this recipe.
  • Chicken –  The main protein source in the dish, diced into bite-size pieces for slow cooking.
  • Cornstarch – A thickening agent used to coat the chicken, creating a crispy outer layer once cooked.
  • Oil – Used to fry the cornstarch-coated chicken and add flavor to the dish.
  • Hot wing sauce – Provides the signature “firecracker” flavor to the chicken, adding heat and spice to the dish.
  • Brown sugar – Adds sweetness to balance out the spiciness of the hot wing sauce.
  • Water – Helps to thin out the sauce and create a smooth consistency.
  • Apple cider vinegar – Adds tanginess to the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Scallions – Used as a garnish to add color and freshness to the finished dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of hot sauce instead of hot wing sauce?

Yes, you can use any type of hot sauce you prefer, but keep in mind that it will affect the overall flavor of the dish.

Overhead view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken over white rice in a white bowl.

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

While you can substitute white sugar for brown sugar, it will not have the same depth of flavor as brown sugar. Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds a richer taste to the dish.

Close up view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken over white rice in a white bowl.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double or triple the recipe as needed to serve a larger group. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.

Close up view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken over white rice in a white bowl.

How long does it take to cook the chicken in a slow cooker?

You should cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your slow cooker. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when finished.

Overhead view of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken over white rice in a white bowl.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double or triple the recipe as needed to serve a larger group. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.

Close up view of chopsticks holding a piece of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It depends on the specific ingredients used. Check the labels of your chosen hot wing sauce and cornstarch to ensure they are gluten-free.

Close up view of chopsticks holding a piece of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken.

Side Options for Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken 

  • Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas..
  • Rice, either white or brown, to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • Garlic mashed potatoes, for a comforting and savory side dish.
  • Coleslaw or a green salad, for a fresh and crunchy contrast to the spicy chicken
  • Corn on the cob, grilled or boiled, for a sweet and juicy side dish.
  • Grilled or roasted sweet potatoes, for a hearty and vitamin-rich side dish.
  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls, for dipping in the extra sauce.
  • Roasted or grilled asparagus, for a simple and elegant side dish.
  • Macaroni and cheese or cheesy grits, for a comfort food twist on the classic chicken and rice combo.
Close up view of chopsticks holding a piece of Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken.

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The recipe

Slow Cooker Firecracker Chicken

  • Prep15 minutes
  • Total15 minutes
  • Servings4

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds chicken diced into bite size pieces
  • ⅓ cup cornstarch
  • ⅓ cup oil
  • ½ cup hot wing sauce
  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • Scallions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Coat your chicken pieces in cornstarch.
  2. Heat up the oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.
  3. Brown the chicken quickly in the pan. We are not looking to cook the chicken through, just get a little color on each side.
  4. Place the browned chicken in the slow cooker.
  5. In a small mixing bowl combine the hot wing sauce, brown sugar, water and vinegar.
  6. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and stir.
  7. Cook on low for 4 hours, stirring once or twice to make sure the sugars are not burning.
  8. Garnish with scallions and serve over white rice.