Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Slow cooker recipes have a special place in my heart, especially when they combine ease of preparation with delicious flavors. One standout in my collection is a delightful dish that burst onto my dinner table: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken infused with a savory-sweet sauce that transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels like a treat. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish has become a go-to for me. If you’re searching for a way to elevate your slow cooker game, you’re in the right place!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Why should this particular recipe take a starring role in your weekly rotation? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time while the slow cooker does most of the work. The balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that appeals to everyone—yes, even the kids! Plus, you can whip it up on a budget, making it a clever choice for family meals without breaking the bank.

"This Honey Garlic Chicken is a game-changer! My whole family devoured it, and I loved how simple it was to prepare. I’ll definitely be making this again!" – A satisfied home cook.

Preparing Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

To make this dish, you’ll be enjoying a few simple steps that lead to a flavorful meal with minimal fuss. Here’s a quick overview: start by seasoning your chicken, whip up a quick sauce, let the slow cooker work its magic, and if you want that extra thickness in your sauce, we’ll show you just how to get it. Ready to get cooking?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your Honey Garlic Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Thickening (optional):

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have at home; for example, using agave syrup in place of honey or tamari for a gluten-free option works wonderfully too!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Season the Chicken: Lightly season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper on both sides. This foundational step enhances the flavor.

2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), vinegar, and red pepper flakes.

3. Combine in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s generously coated.

4. Slow Cook the Dish: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’re aiming for tender, fully cooked chicken that shreds easily.

5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens.

6. Finish Up: Return the chicken to the slow cooker or pour the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

What to Serve It With

To balance the flavors and complete your meal, consider serving your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken with steamed rice or fluffy quinoa. Fresh sautéed vegetables like broccoli or green beans work wonderfully as sides, adding both nutrition and color to your plate. Feel free to throw in a refreshing salad or some crispy egg rolls for a delightful twist!

Best Way to Store Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

After enjoying this delicious meal, you may have leftovers to store. To keep your Honey Garlic Chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and you can enjoy the flavors for up to 3 months.

When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture.

Expert Advice

For the best results, always use good-quality soy sauce; a low sodium option is perfect for controlling the dish’s saltiness. Also, feel free to experiment with different heat levels by adjusting the red pepper flakes or adding a bit of sriracha to the sauce. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Creative Twists

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian take or try adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas into the slow cooker for an all-in-one meal. Experimenting with spices, such as adding five-spice powder or using maple syrup instead of honey, can also yield delicious variations.

Helpful FAQs

What’s the prep time for this recipe?

Prep time is quick – you can expect to spend about 10-15 minutes gathering and preparing the ingredients before letting the slow cooker work its magic!

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs; just ensure to extend the cooking time. Make sure they reach the safe cooking temperature of 165°F before serving.

How do I reheat leftovers safely?

To reheat leftovers, use the microwave or heat gently on the stove. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F to be food safe.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect fusion of convenience and taste, making it a beloved staple in many households. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish effortlessly ticks all the boxes!

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

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• Total Time: 315 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

Tender chicken thighs or breasts infused with a savory-sweet honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Lightly season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. If desired, remove the chicken and transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, stir into the sauce, and simmer until thickened.
6. Return the chicken to the slow cooker or pour the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have at home. Using agave syrup instead of honey or tamari for a gluten-free option works well.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 300 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: slow cooker, honey garlic, chicken, easy dinner, family meal