Slow cooker honey garlic chicken

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory homemade sauce. It's a simple dish ideal for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort for a flavorful meal.

06 Jan 2026
Cook time 360 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

8 chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup tomato sauce
2 garlic cloves
Slow cooker honey garlic chicken

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines sweet and savory flavors for a mouthwatering result. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe ensures tender, flavorful chicken thighs with minimal effort.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are in a single layer for better cooking and flavor distribution.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, tomato sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on Low for 5-6 hours or on High for 2-3 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check the chicken to ensure it is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 75°C/165°F).
5. (Optional) Thicken the Sauce:
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken thighs once they are cooked and transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Simmer the sauce on medium heat for about 5-10 minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can thicken the sauce in the slow cooker by leaving the lid off and setting it to High for an additional 20-30 minutes.
6. Serve:
- Once the sauce is at your desired thickness, pour it back over the chicken thighs or serve it on the side. Serve the honey garlic chicken over rice, with steamed vegetables, or with your preferred side dishes.
7. Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a fuss-free, flavorful meal that will surely become a family favorite. With its savory, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce, this dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy the simplicity of slow cooking while indulging in a delicious home-cooked meal.

Slow cooker honey garlic chicken FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for slow cooker honey garlic chicken?

Cook the chicken on Low for 5-6 hours or on High for 2-3 hours. Cooking times may vary by slow cooker model, so check for doneness.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it is tender and cooked through, with an internal temperature of at least 75°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce for regular soy sauce to reduce sodium levels. Maple syrup can also be used in place of honey for a different sweetness.

How should I store leftovers from this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be aware that the cooking time may need to be adjusted as breasts can cook more quickly.

Cooking Tips:

- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce mixture for an hour before cooking.

- You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

- Add some vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.

- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.

- Check towards the end of the cooking time to make sure the chicken is properly cooked and not overdone.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 500kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 0.48g
Sugar 13g
Fat 33g

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