Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

You’ll love this easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even meal prep. With just five main ingredients and a few seasonings, you can create a flavorful meal that pleases everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
• Flavorful Sauce: The honey garlic sauce infuses the chicken with a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Dish: Great for serving over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Suitable for Various Occasions: Ideal for casual dinners or special occasions alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make preparing this Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving tender chicken and allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps ensure that all ingredients are combined thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that the sauce ingredients blend well together for an even flavor profile.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup low sodium ketchup
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

How to Make Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Arrange the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. minced garlic
2. honey
3. low sodium ketchup
4. low sodium soy sauce
5. dried oregano
6. fresh parsley

Whisk until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Close with a lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked, remove the lid and transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Spoon some of the delicious sauce over the top and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, perfect for any dinner occasion!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in several ways. Whether you want it as a main course or part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken atop a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for a comforting meal. The sauce soaks into the rice, adding flavor.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a healthy balance. The freshness of the veggies complements the rich sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. Add some shredded carrots and cucumber for crunch.

On Noodles

• Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked egg noodles or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired pasta dish. Garnish with sesame seeds for extra flair.

As Sandwiches

• Shred the cooked chicken and serve it on slider buns for delicious honey garlic chicken sandwiches. Top with coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

To make sure your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Use boneless, skinless thighs for tender meat that holds up well during slow cooking.

• Don’t skip the searing: Although optional, searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot enhances its flavor and gives it a nice color.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of honey slightly or add more soy sauce to balance flavors.

• Add extra vegetables: Consider throwing in chopped bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for added nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic side that absorbs all that delicious honey garlic sauce.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast.
3. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting adds a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken.
4. Asian Slaw – A fresh slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and acidity.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs offers a nutritious alternative.
6. Stir-Fried Bok Choy – Quick stir-frying bok choy adds a vibrant green side that’s rich in vitamins.
7. Sesame Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans topped with sesame seeds offer an easy yet flavorful side.
8. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that soaks up sauces well while providing a mild taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Chicken thighs work best for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor. Using chicken breasts may result in a drier dish.
• Skipping the marinating step: Allowing the chicken to soak in the honey garlic sauce can enhance its flavor. If time permits, marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can lead to dry chicken. Stick to the recommended times of 4-5 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precise measurements ensure a balanced flavor profile. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Neglecting to garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh parsley elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor. Don’t forget this final touch!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

• Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce mixture to give it an extra kick.

Is it possible to cook this recipe on high?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. Just monitor closely to avoid drying out the chicken.

What should I serve with Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles, making it versatile and delicious!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful and easy recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level!