Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Slow cooker honey garlic chicken takes me back to a busy day when I needed a meal that practically cooked itself so I tossed everything into my slow cooker and hoped for the best. Hours later I lifted the lid and was greeted by the most fragrant, sweet, and savory aroma that instantly made my mouth water.

Since that first try, this recipe has become my lifesaver on hectic days because it’s effortless yet full of flavor. The chicken turns out fall-apart tender, coated in a glossy sauce made with honey, garlic, and soy, and it pairs perfectly with rice or noodles for a comforting dinner everyone loves.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Chicken thighs – Juicy and tender, perfect for slow cooking.
• Honey – Adds natural sweetness and creates a sticky glaze.
• Garlic – Gives the sauce a bold, aromatic depth.
• Soy sauce – Balances the sweetness with savory umami.
• Rice vinegar – A touch of acidity that brightens the sauce.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the sauce.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce at the end.
• Green onions – Freshly chopped for garnish and flavor.
• Sesame seeds – Add crunch and a nutty finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Slow cooker – The key to cooking the chicken low and slow for tender results.
• Small bowl – For mixing the sauce ingredients together.
• Whisk – To blend the sauce until smooth.
• Tongs – Perfect for removing the chicken without breaking it apart.
• Measuring spoons – To keep the sauce perfectly balanced.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by placing the chicken thighs into the slow cooker in a single layer.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, I whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3:

I pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well.

Step 4:

I cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.

Step 5:

Once cooked, I remove the chicken and whisk in a cornstarch slurry to the sauce, letting it thicken for a few minutes.

Step 6:

I return the chicken to the sauce, spoon it over to coat, and finish by garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Tips

I like to brown the chicken quickly in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for extra flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after adding the cornstarch. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.

Ways to Serve

Serve this honey garlic chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or even with roasted vegetables. It also makes a great filling for lettuce wraps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s cooked through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this slow cooker honey garlic chicken a try because it’s one of the easiest and most delicious meals you can make with minimal effort. Let me know how you enjoy it when you try it at home.

Happy Cooking!

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