Slow-Cooked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that infuses the meat with incredible flavor. This dish requires minimal prep and uses simple ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for a comforting, homemade dinner.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, rice vinegar (if using), dried thyme, and black pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
- Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender. You can also use bone-in thighs, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
- Honey: Use a good-quality honey for the best flavor. The sweetness balances the savory soy sauce and garlic.
- Sauce Thickening: Thickening the sauce is optional, but it adds a nice consistency that clings to the chicken.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Additions: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for added veggies.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can become dry. Reduce the cooking time slightly if using chicken breasts.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze honey garlic chicken. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve more people. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken and sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Steamed Rice: Serve the honey garlic chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Quinoa: Pair with quinoa for a protein-packed side dish.
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked noodles for a delicious twist.
Slow-Cooked Honey Garlic Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, sweet honey, and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will enjoy. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe is a stress-free way to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal. Give it a try and savor the rich, delicious flavors!