This Honey Garlic Chicken is sweet, sticky, and so easy to make in your crockpot! With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty meal ready without much fuss.
My favorite part? You can set it and forget it! I love coming home to the lovely smell of dinner just waiting for me. Serve it over rice or noodles for a meal that’s sure to please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my top choice for this recipe. They stay tender and juicy. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work too, but watch the cooking time as they can dry out faster.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness and stickiness to the dish. You can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar if you want a different flavor or if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great option to keep the dish from being too salty. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free version, or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use less (about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove).
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang, but it’s optional. You can leave it out or use apple cider vinegar as a substitute.
How Do I Get the Best Results for the Sauce Consistency?
Getting the sauce just right is key for this honey garlic chicken. To thicken it perfectly, follow these steps:
- After cooking the chicken, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with water in a small bowl.
- Add this slurry to the sauce in the crockpot and stir well.
- Set the crockpot to high and let it cook uncovered for 15-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
By thickening the sauce at the end, it clings better to the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Honey Garlic Chicken In The Crockpot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Honey Garlic Chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires 4 to 6 hours of cooking time on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high) in the crockpot. Make sure to add an extra 15-30 minutes for thickening the sauce at the end. Overall, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that gives you plenty of time to relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure the chicken is evenly spread out for even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar (if you’re using it), black pepper, and chicken broth. This mixture is what will give your chicken that delicious honey garlic flavor! Once mixed, pour it over the chicken in the crockpot.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You want the chicken to be cooked through and tender, so it can easily be shredded later.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the chicken is done cooking, carefully remove it to a plate and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the sauce in the crockpot and stir well to combine.
5. Final Touch and Serve:
Set the crockpot to high and cook uncovered for about 15 to 30 minutes to thicken the sauce, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, return the chicken to the sauce and stir to coat it evenly.
6. Plating:
Serve your Honey Garlic Chicken over a bed of cooked white rice. Don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a vibrant finish!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful crockpot honey garlic chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
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Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe! Just keep in mind that cooking time may increase. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For best results, it’s recommended to thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with white rice, but you can also serve it with brown rice, quinoa, or noodles. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.