Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crockpot honey garlic chicken is a sweet, savory, and tender dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful honey garlic sauce. Serve it with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless: Let your slow cooker do all the work.
• Family-friendly: Sweet and savory flavors appeal to all ages.
• Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or even in sandwiches.
• Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Honey
• Soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• Garlic, minced
• Ketchup
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Water
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, and vinegar.
2. Add ingredients to the crockpot:
   • Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the crockpot. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
3. Cook the chicken:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Thicken the sauce:
   • Remove the chicken and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 10–15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
5. Shred or serve whole:
   • Return the chicken to the crockpot and coat it with the thickened sauce. Serve whole or shred the chicken for easier serving.
6. Garnish and serve:
   • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. Serve over rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 4–5 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
• Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 5 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
• Vegetarian option: Use tofu or jackfruit instead of chicken.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
• Pineapple twist: Add pineapple chunks to the crockpot for a tropical flavor.
• Cheesy delight: Top with shredded cheese and broil for a few minutes before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?

Chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness, but chicken breasts work well too.

3. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes and use the sauté function to thicken the sauce.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from being too salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the sweetness with extra honey if needed.

5. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, add carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.

6. How do I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

Reduce the sauce on the stovetop or use arrowroot powder as a substitute.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your crockpot is large enough to fit all the ingredients.

8. What’s the best side for this dish?

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and cook the chicken, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat and thicken the sauce before serving.

10. What’s a good garnish alternative to sesame seeds?

Crushed peanuts or chopped cilantro make excellent garnishes.

Conclusion

Crockpot honey garlic chicken is a flavorful and effortless dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its tender chicken and rich, sticky sauce, it’s a versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite sides and enjoy a stress-free dinner!

Print