Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

You’ll love this Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal that impresses everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Flavorful Sauce: The honey garlic sauce infuses the chicken with a rich and tasty flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside vegetables for a wholesome dinner option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to satisfy.
• Easy Cleanup: Using a crockpot means less mess in the kitchen and more time to relax after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll want to gather your tools beforehand. Having everything ready makes cooking more enjoyable!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes tender and flavorful while you go about your day.
• Mixing Bowl: A good-sized mixing bowl helps combine your ingredients evenly for the best sauce consistency.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that all ingredients are thoroughly blended, enhancing the flavor of your sauce.

Ingredients

You’ll love this easy crock pot recipe for chicken thighs cooked in honey garlic sauce. Only 5 ingredients + a couple seasonings. Super easy chicken recipe!

Main Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup low sodium ketchup
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

How to Make Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Arrange the Chicken Thighs

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Ensure they are spread out evenly for proper cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. minced garlic
2. honey
3. ketchup
4. soy sauce
5. dried oregano
6. fresh parsley

Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure all pieces are coated well with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover with a lid and set your slow cooker to cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove the lid and transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Spoon some of the delicious sauce over the top and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various creative ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious honey garlic sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Add some colorful stir-fried vegetables for a nutritious side; bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots complement the dish well.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a low-carb option, serve the chicken wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and freshness.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa provides a protein-rich base that pairs nicely with the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas for tasty tacos topped with avocado and salsa.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

To ensure your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use bone-in thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to your dish.
• Marinate overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.
• Avoid overcooking: Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours to prevent dry chicken.
• Add veggies: Include vegetables like carrots or bell peppers in the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor.
• Garnish generously: Fresh parsley and sesame seeds not only enhance presentation but also add texture.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer your dish less sweet, reduce the honey by half without sacrificing flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering tastes.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the chicken’s flavors.
3. Fried Rice: A Chinese take on rice that brings extra taste; add peas and eggs for a complete meal.
4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil offers a refreshing contrast.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing balances the richness of the chicken.
6. Noodles: Serve with soba or rice noodles tossed in soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Using too much sauce: Excess sauce can make the chicken soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not seasoning properly: Lack of seasoning can dull the flavor. Ensure you measure your spices accurately.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can make chicken dry. Follow the cooking times closely to keep it juicy.
• Skipping marination: Marinating adds depth and flavor. Allowing the chicken to soak in sauce for even a short time can enhance taste.
• Using frozen chicken: Frozen chicken may not cook evenly. Thawing your chicken thighs first ensures they cook through properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best flavor.

Reheating Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken:

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast; however, they may dry out more easily than thighs.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using low-sugar ketchup and reducing honey for fewer calories while still keeping flavor.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken?

Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad to complement the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding bell peppers or broccoli in the last hour of cooking will add nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is an easy yet delicious meal that everyone will love. Its versatile nature allows for various customization options. You can adjust seasonings or add different vegetables based on preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting dinner!