Introduction
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic and soy sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. The best part is that you can simply set it and forget it in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. The tender chicken, coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce, pairs perfectly with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Read on to discover the list of ingredients you will need, step-by-step instructions on how to prepare this delectable dish, possible variations to customize the recipe to your liking, helpful tips for a successful cooking experience, and answers to frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken.
Ingredients
To make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup of honey
– 1/2 cup of low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of ketchup
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
– Cooked rice or quinoa
– Steamed vegetables
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and place them in the slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 2: Thicken the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into the saucepan and whisk in the cornstarch slurry.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over it.
Gently toss the chicken in the sauce until it is well coated.
Serve the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken over cooked rice or quinoa, garnished with sesame seeds if desired, and steamed vegetables on the side.
Enjoy this flavorful dish with your loved ones!
Variations
There are several ways to customize Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken to suit your preferences:
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the chicken with firm tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Citrus Twist:
Add the juice and zest of an orange or a lemon to the sauce for a citrusy flavor profile.
Extra Veggies:
Toss in some chopped bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added color and nutrition.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time:
Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce:
Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish, especially since other ingredients may also contain salt.
Monitor Cooking Time:
Check the chicken periodically to prevent overcooking, as different slow cookers may vary in temperature.
Adjust Sweetness:
If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet sauce, adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste.
Double the Recipe:
Easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Experiment with different variations and add your own personal touch to make this dish uniquely yours. Whether you enjoy it with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad, Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a satisfying and comforting meal that will leave you craving for more.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe. However, be mindful of potential differences in cooking time and adjust accordingly.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: To make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and ensure that the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. Simply follow the cooking instructions when you are ready to enjoy your meal.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
A mouthwatering dish that combines the sweetness of honey with savory garlic and soy sauce, resulting in tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
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2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1/2 cup honey
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1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
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1/4 cup ketchup
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Cooked rice or quinoa
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Steamed vegetables
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Sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
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Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and place them in the slow cooker.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set aside.
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In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into the saucepan and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
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Return the chicken to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over it. Toss gently until well coated.
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Serve the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken over cooked rice or quinoa, garnished with sesame seeds if desired, and serve with steamed vegetables on the side.
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Enjoy!
