Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
You’ll love this easy crockpot honey garlic chicken recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. The simplicity of just five ingredients makes it an ideal choice for those seeking quick and delicious meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With only five main ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it perfect for picky eaters.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Cook in advance and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your crockpot honey garlic chicken, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly before adding them to the slow cooker.
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: Arrange the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are arranged evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the minced garlic, honey, low sodium ketchup, low sodium soy sauce, dried oregano, and fresh parsley.
2. Whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Close the lid securely. Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve
After cooking:
1. Remove the lid and carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate.
2. Spoon some of the delicious sauce over the chicken.
3. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful crockpot honey garlic chicken!
How to Serve Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Serving Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken can elevate your dinner experience. This dish offers a sweet and savory flavor profile that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, fragrant option that complements the flavors of the honey garlic sauce.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
On a Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens topped with sliced chicken, drizzled with extra sauce for added flavor.
- Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage and carrots mixed with sesame dressing make a refreshing side.
With Vegetables
- Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, this side adds brightness and nutrients to your plate.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly cooked green beans with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch.
How to Perfect Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, follow these simple tips. They will help ensure your chicken turns out tender and flavorful every time.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey can significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure there’s enough space for steam circulation; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your crockpot model, you may need to tweak the cooking time to get perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture.
- Garnish Creatively: Adding fresh parsley or sesame seeds right before serving can add visual appeal and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken can complete your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish well.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with vegetables that adds texture without overpowering the main dish.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick-cooked bok choy brings a crunchy element while absorbing the flavors of the chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances out the richness of the honey garlic sauce.
- Sesame Noodles: Noodles tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce make for an easy yet tasty addition.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a pop of color and sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken even better. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Crockpot: Placing too many chicken thighs in the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce can reduce flavor intensity. Aim for at least an hour if you have time, or cook it directly for a simpler approach.
- Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Using regular soy sauce instead of low sodium can make the dish overly salty. Always check your salt levels and adjust accordingly.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on HIGH for too long might dry out the chicken. Make sure to monitor time closely for tender, juicy results.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Relying solely on powdered garlic or old honey can diminish flavor. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for a more vibrant taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with dates for reference.
Reheating Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken?
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple dish made with chicken thighs cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts; however, they may cook faster than thighs, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce mixture before cooking.
What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken?
Serve it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is not only quick and easy but also full of flavor. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful dinner that your family will love!
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With just five main ingredients, this easy recipe shines with its sweet and savory flavors, ensuring everyone at the table will be impressed.
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
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, oregano, and parsley. Whisk until well mixed.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and cover.
- Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until fully cooked.
- Serve with toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on LOW (3 to 4 hours on HIGH)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
