Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Description:

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a savory-sweet, tender, and juicy dish that practically melts in your mouth. The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger creates a perfect balance of flavors that seep into every bite. Best part? You can toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while your home fills with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!

Ingredients For Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• ½ cup honey

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• ¼ cup ketchup (or hoisin sauce for a deeper flavor)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• 1 tablespoon water (for slurry)

• Sesame seeds & chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, vinegar, ginger, and pepper.

2. Assemble in the slow cooker:
   Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture evenly over it.

3. Cook:
   Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

4. Thicken the sauce (optional):
   Remove chicken and pour the sauce into a saucepan.
   Mix cornstarch with water, add to the sauce, and simmer over medium heat until thickened.

5. Combine & Serve:
   Return the chicken to the thickened sauce or drizzle sauce over chicken.
   Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

6. Serving suggestion:
   Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes:

• Use chicken thighs for a more tender, juicy texture.

• You can substitute maple syrup or agave for honey if desired.

• Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.

• Double the sauce if serving with rice — it’s that good!

• Want it spicy? Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

• Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference.

Servings:

4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)

Benefits:

• High in protein – helps muscle repair and keeps you full longer.

• Garlic and ginger support immune health and digestion.

• Honey provides natural sweetness with antioxidants.

• Low effort, high reward – a perfect dump-and-go meal for busy days.

• Family-friendly – everyone loves the sweet-savory combo!

Q&A Section:

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it before cooking for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Q2: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Q3: Can I make it on the stovetop or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Simmer covered for about 25–30 minutes on the stove, or cook for 8–10 minutes on high pressure in an Instant Pot.

Q4: What sides go best with this dish?
Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried veggies, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice.

Q5: Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks?
Yes! Adjust cooking time — cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).