Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet honey and savory garlic for a mouthwatering meal. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together. Serve it over rice or with vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Timing

Preparing Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 4-6 hours of cooking time on low or 2-3 hours on high. Total time is approximately 4-6 hours and 10 minutes.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until well blended.
2. Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the slow cooker and let it cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
5. Serve: Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce. Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds .

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	25g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	1g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Substitute honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free alternative.
• Serve over brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed broccoli, green beans, or mixed vegetables.
• Rice (white or brown) or noodles for a complete meal.
• A side salad for a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Ensure the chicken is in a single layer for even cooking.
• Not shredding the chicken: Shredding allows the chicken to soak up more sauce and enhances flavor.
• Skipping the garnish: Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

In just about 10 minutes of prep time and a few hours of cooking, you can enjoy delicious Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken that is perfect for any occasion. This sweet and savory dish is sure to become a family favorite!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick if desired.

What can I do if the sauce is too sweet?

If the sauce is too sweet, balance it with a splash of vinegar or a bit more soy sauce.