Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Short Description

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and effortless dish, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and tender chicken makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Requires minimal prep time and is cooked in a slow cooker for convenience
• Uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry
• Produces tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with rich honey garlic flavor
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• A versatile dish that pairs well with rice, vegetables, or mashed potatoes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless or skin-on)
• Honey
• Soy sauce
• Garlic (minced)
• Ketchup
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Chicken broth
• Cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
• Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, vinegar, and chicken broth.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove some of the cooking liquid, mix it with cornstarch, and return it to the slow cooker. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.
6. Serve the chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a bit of heat.
• Teriyaki Twist: Swap out the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Ginger Addition: Add grated fresh ginger to enhance the flavor.
• Boneless Chicken Thighs: You can use boneless thighs; reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
• Vegetable Addition: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster and can become dry, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Do I need to sear the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker?

Searing is optional but adds extra depth of flavor. If you have time, sear the chicken in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as your slow cooker can accommodate the extra chicken without overcrowding.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad pair well with this chicken.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then quick release the pressure.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, mix the sauce ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using.

How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few minutes after cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw them first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or need a simple dinner, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory sauce that pairs well with a variety of sides. Try it today and enjoy a stress-free, flavorful meal!

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