Crockpot honey garlic chicken has become my go-to weeknight wonder! I stumbled upon this recipe when I was desperate for a dinner that was both incredibly easy and packed with flavor. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it cooks low and slow is simply divine – a sweet, savory mix of honey, garlic, and soy that promises a delicious meal. This isn’t just any slow cooker meal; it’s a family favorite that always gets rave reviews. It’s so simple, even a beginner can master it. Let’s get this incredibly easy crockpot honey garlic chicken cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly simple recipe. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights and always a crowd-pleaser!
- Incredibly Easy: Minimal prep means more time for you.
- Flavor Explosion: The perfect balance of sweet honey and savory garlic.
- Busy Weeknight Hero: Toss it in the slow cooker and forget it until dinner time.
- Family Favorite: This easy crockpot honey garlic chicken is a guaranteed hit with all ages.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for different cuts of chicken or added veggies.
- Perfect for Beginners: This simple slow cooker honey garlic chicken is foolproof.
- Deliciously Tender: The slow cooking process makes chicken incredibly moist and shreddable.
- Minimal Cleanup: One-pot cooking means less mess to deal with after dinner.
Ingredients for Flavorful Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious honey garlic chicken experience. The magic happens when these components meld together in the slow cooker!
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – I prefer thighs for extra moisture, but breasts work perfectly for this crockpot chicken recipe.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce – This forms the savory base of our sauce.
- 1/4 cup honey – The star for that signature sweet glaze.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar – Adds another layer of sweetness and helps thicken the sauce slightly.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – For that authentic nutty aroma and flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Don’t skimp here; fresh garlic is key to the honey garlic chicken flavor!
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – Adds a warm, zesty kick.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) – If you like a thicker sauce for your crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce.
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry) – Mixed with cornstarch to make it smooth.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Simple Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This recipe makes it incredibly easy to whip up a fantastic crockpot chicken dinner. You’ll be amazed at how little effort is required for such amazing flavor!
- Step 1: Place your chicken thighs or breasts into the basin of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re in a single layer if possible for even cooking.
- Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 3 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger. This mixture is the heart of your flavorful honey garlic sauce. The aroma of the garlic and ginger mingling is already promising!
- Step 3: Pour this luscious honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Ensure all the chicken pieces are coated nicely.
- Step 4: Cover your slow cooker. Cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours or on the high setting for 2-3 hours. The exact time will depend on your slow cooker and the size of your chicken pieces. This slow cooking process is what makes the chicken so tender.
- Step 5: If you prefer a thicker sauce for your crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce, prepare a slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving time. It will thicken the sauce beautifully.
- Step 6: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Alternatively, you can slice the chicken breast for a different presentation. Return the shredded or sliced chicken to the slow cooker to coat it thoroughly in the thickened honey garlic sauce. This step ensures every bite of your slow cooker chicken breast honey garlic is packed with flavor.
- Step 7: Serve this delicious slow cooker chicken breast honey garlic hot. It’s the best crockpot honey garlic chicken for a quick and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
I’ve made this recipe countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for the most delicious result!
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker. Give the chicken and sauce space to cook evenly for maximum tenderness.
- If using chicken breasts, consider adding them halfway through the cooking time on low to prevent them from drying out.
- Taste and adjust the sauce before serving. You might want a little more honey for sweetness or a splash more vinegar for tanginess.
What’s the secret to perfect crockpot honey garlic chicken?
The real secret is the balance of sweet, salty, and tangy in the sauce, plus allowing enough time for the flavors to meld. Using fresh garlic and ginger makes a huge difference in the depth of flavor for this honey garlic sauce.
Can I make this crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the sauce ingredients and store them in the fridge for a day or two before you plan to cook. Just combine everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to start the cooking process.
How do I avoid common mistakes with slow cooker honey garlic chicken?
Avoid overcooking, especially with chicken breasts, as they can become dry. Also, ensure you’re using a good quality soy sauce and fresh aromatics for the best flavor profile. For more information on cooking techniques, you can explore resources on cooking chicken thighs.
Best Ways to Serve Your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Dinner
This versatile crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce is a dream to serve because it pairs so well with so many things! My family’s absolute favorite is serving it spooned generously over fluffy steamed white or brown rice. The rice soaks up that incredible sauce beautifully.
Another fantastic option is to serve it alongside some crisp, steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli florets, snap peas, or even bell pepper strips add a lovely freshness and color to the plate. For a heartier meal, consider serving this amazing crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce alongside some garlic noodles or even a simple side salad to balance the richness.
Nutrition Facts for Honey Garlic Chicken
This delicious slow cooker meal offers a fantastic balance of flavor and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this honey garlic chicken recipe:
- Calories: 350-450 (estimated)
- Fat: 10-15g (estimated)
- Saturated Fat: 2-4g (estimated)
- Unsaturated Fat: 8-11g (estimated)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g (estimated)
- Fiber: 1-2g (estimated)
- Sugar: 20-30g (estimated)
- Protein: 30-40g (estimated)
- Cholesterol: 90-120mg (estimated)
- Sodium: 800-1200mg (estimated)
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the leanness of the chicken and the exact amounts of honey and soy sauce. For more detailed nutritional information, you can consult resources on nutritional tracking.
How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Leftover crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce is a treasure, and knowing how to properly store and reheat it ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal later. Once the chicken has cooled down a bit after cooking, transfer it to airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, aim to use it within 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for planning your meals for the week!
If you want to keep this amazing crockpot chicken recipe for longer, freezing is your best bet. Pack the cooled chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Properly stored, your crockpot honey garlic chicken can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, the best method depends on your preference. For a quick reheat, use the microwave, stirring halfway through. If you have more time, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this easy crockpot honey garlic chicken?
Yes, you absolutely can! While chicken thighs tend to stay moister due to their higher fat content, chicken breasts work wonderfully. If you’re using breasts, I recommend adding them about halfway through the cooking time on the low setting (around 2-3 hours in) to prevent them from drying out. This ensures your slow cooker chicken breast honey garlic is still tender and delicious.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If your honey garlic sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry! The easiest way to thicken it is by making a cornstarch slurry. Simply whisk together 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It will thicken the sauce beautifully, creating that perfect consistency for your crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this easy crockpot honey garlic chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for adding veggies. I love tossing in some broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or even baby carrots during the last hour of cooking. They’ll steam in the delicious sauce and become perfectly tender. This makes for a complete, flavorful crockpot honey garlic chicken dinner all in one pot!
What’s the best way to serve this crockpot honey garlic chicken?
The most popular way to serve this dish is over fluffy steamed rice, which is perfect for soaking up all that amazing sauce. Some other great options include serving it with noodles, mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter meal. It’s truly a versatile dish that fits many different meal preferences.
Variations of Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, you might want to explore some fun twists on this beloved dish. These variations offer different flavors and textures, ensuring you never get bored with your slow cooker chicken!
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. This gives your crockpot honey garlic chicken a delightful warmth that complements the sweet and savory notes.
- Ginger-Garlic Chicken Thighs: If you’re a fan of bolder flavors, double the amount of fresh ginger and garlic. This intensifies the aromatic profile, making your honey garlic chicken thighs crockpot dish incredibly fragrant and robust.
- Vegetable Medley: Turn this into a one-pot wonder by adding hearty vegetables like chunks of sweet potato, broccoli florets, or sliced bell peppers during the last hour of cooking. They’ll absorb the delicious sauce for a complete meal.
- Lemon-Herb Twist: Brighten up the flavor profile by adding the zest and juice of one lemon and a tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the sauce. This offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the honey garlic.
Teriyaki Sauce: Amazing 4-Hour Crockpot Chicken
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes - 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This recipe provides simple instructions for making a delicious Crockpot honey garlic chicken, a family favorite. It’s a quick and easy slow cooker chicken breast honey garlic dish perfect for dinner, especially when served with rice. This easy crockpot honey garlic chicken is ideal for beginners and can be a healthy crockpot honey garlic chicken option.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place chicken in your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This creates your flavorful honey garlic sauce.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. This is the slow cooker honey garlic chicken cooking time.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce for your crockpot chicken with honey garlic sauce, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Shred or slice the chicken directly in the slow cooker with the honey garlic sauce.
- Serve the best crockpot honey garlic chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. This makes a perfect crockpot honey garlic chicken dinner.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This recipe is very adaptable. You can use different cuts of chicken or vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
- This honey garlic chicken crock pot is excellent served over steamed rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (high) or 4-6 hours (low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4-6 oz chicken with sauce)
- Calories: 350-450 (estimated)
- Sugar: 20-30g (estimated)
- Sodium: 800-1200mg (estimated)
- Fat: 10-15g (estimated)
- Saturated Fat: 2-4g (estimated)
- Unsaturated Fat: 8-11g (estimated)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g (estimated)
- Fiber: 1-2g (estimated)
- Protein: 30-40g (estimated)
- Cholesterol: 90-120mg (estimated)