Add food_related/Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions.md

food_related/Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions.md

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+# Foolproof Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions
+
+This recipe combines slow-cooked chicken, caramelized onions, and the rich flavor of balsamic vinegar in a balanced, foolproof method.
+
+## Ingredients:
+- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
+- 2 lbs yellow onions, thinly sliced
+- 1/4 cup olive oil
+- 1/2 cup chicken broth
+- 1/4 cup regular balsamic vinegar
+- 2 tsp garlic powder
+- 2 tsp onion powder
+- 1 tsp dried thyme
+- 1 tsp black pepper
+- 1 tsp salt
+- 2 bay leaves
+
+For finishing:
+- 2 tbsp high-quality balsamic vinegar
+- 1 tbsp honey
+- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
+
+## Instructions:
+
+1. Prep (15 minutes):
+   - Thinly slice the onions.
+   - In a bowl, mix chicken broth, regular balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
+
+2. Layer in slow cooker (5 minutes):
+   - Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
+   - Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
+   - Arrange chicken breasts on top of the onions in a single layer.
+   - Pour the seasoned broth mixture over the chicken.
+   - Add bay leaves.
+
+3. Slow cook:
+   - Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours.
+
+4. Separate and shred (10 minutes):
+   - Remove chicken and shred using two forks.
+   - Strain onions, reserving cooking liquid.
+
+5. Reduce sauce (15 minutes):
+   - Transfer 1 cup of cooking liquid to a small saucepan.
+   - Add 2 tbsp high-quality balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp honey.
+   - Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, about 10-15 minutes.
+
+6. Combine and serve (5 minutes):
+   - In a large bowl, gently mix shredded chicken and caramelized onions.
+   - Pour the reduced sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
+   - Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
+
+## Notes:
+- This recipe uses two types of balsamic vinegar: regular for slow cooking and high-quality for finishing. This ensures a deep flavor throughout with a bright, complex finish.
+- The honey in the finishing sauce balances the acidity of the vinegar and helps create a glossy glaze.
+- If the final dish seems too dry, add more of the reserved cooking liquid as needed.
+- Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.
+
+## Storage:
+- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
+- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
+
+## Serving Suggestions:
+- Serve over rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes
+- Use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps
+- Toss with pasta or zucchini noodles
+- Serve on top of a mixed green salad