Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Imagine walking into your home after a long day, the aromatic scent of Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken wrapping around you like a cozy blanket. Each whiff teases your senses with promises of sticky sweetness mingling with garlicky goodness. You can almost hear your taste buds cheer in anticipation as the savory sauce coats tender chicken pieces, begging you to dive in.

This dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s steeped in memories. I remember my first attempt at this recipe—a rainy day when takeout seemed too dreary. My family gathered around the table, eyes wide with excitement as I served up my slow cooker creation. The moment they took their first bite was priceless; even the dog sat up straight, tail wagging in approval! It’s moments like these that remind us why we cook—food not only nourishes our bodies but also brings us together.

I once made this dish for a potluck, and let’s just say there were no leftovers! Friends kept asking for the recipe while I tried to remember exactly what I did that day.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicier than breasts and absorb flavors beautifully throughout cooking.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for robust flavor; fresh is always better than pre-minced options.
• Honey: Opt for raw honey if possible; its rich sweetness elevates the dish significantly.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
• Sesame Oil: A drizzle adds depth and an aromatic finish that enhances the overall taste.
• Green Onions: Chopped as a garnish, they provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast.
• Ground Ginger: Offers warmth and spice; fresh ginger works too if you have it on hand!
• Black Pepper: Just a pinch enhances all those lovely flavors dancing together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preparing Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean surface. Chop your garlic finely and cut the chicken thighs into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Mixing the Sauce

In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper until smooth. The sweet aroma will make you want to dive right in!

Loading the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken pieces into your slow cooker first. Pour the prepared sauce over them evenly—no one likes dry chicken!

Cooking Time

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. The smell will drive you wild as it cooks!

Finishing Touches

Once done cooking, shred the chicken gently using two forks right in the slow cooker to soak up more sauce. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for that pop of color.

Serve It Up

Dish out portions onto plates or bowls alongside steamed rice or veggies. Enjoy every last bite—you deserve it!

Now that you’re armed with everything needed to create this deliciously sticky masterpiece of Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, gather your loved ones around because you’re about to impress them all!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in your slow cooker if it has that option; this adds flavor. Then combine honey, garlic, and soy sauce while the chicken cooks away.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup or add crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli during the last hour for an easy veggie boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low in the microwave to keep everything juicy and delicious.

I remember serving this dish at my sister’s birthday party, and it disappeared faster than cake! Everyone raved about it and asked for the recipe.

FAQ

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as soy sauce alternatives.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, frozen chicken works great; just extend cooking time by 1-2 hours.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s not spicy unless you add chili flakes or hot sauce to it.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory delight that transforms tender chicken into a mouthwatering dish with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup raw honey
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients; chop the garlic and chicken into uniform pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks in the sauce and sprinkle with green onions before serving.

Notes

• Marinate the chicken for at least an hour before cooking to deepen flavors.
• For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Pair with steamed rice or fresh vegetables to create a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 105mg