Introduction to Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious dinner after a long day. That’s where my Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken comes to the rescue! This sweet and savory dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have your family gathering around the table in no time. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a flavorful honey garlic sauce, ready to impress your loved ones without the fuss. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer for those hectic weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
This Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a lifesaver for busy evenings! With minimal prep time, you can toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. You’ll love how it transforms a simple dinner into a delightful family feast!
Ingredients for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts work just as well.
- Honey: This adds the perfect sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze.
- Soy sauce: Opt for low-sodium to keep the dish balanced and not overly salty.
- Ketchup: It adds a tangy depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Hoisin sauce: This is optional, but it brings an extra layer of richness to the dish.
- Minced garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch!
- Dried oregano: This herb adds a subtle earthiness that complements the other flavors.
- Ground black pepper: A little heat to balance the sweetness.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they give a nice kick if you like some spice.
- Rice vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity, brightening the dish.
- Sesame oil: Optional, but it enhances the Asian flavor profile beautifully.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce at the end for a luscious finish.
- Chopped green onions: These are for garnish, adding a fresh crunch.
- Sesame seeds: Optional garnish that adds a nice visual touch and nutty flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Making Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress your family.
Prepare the Sauce
Start by mixing the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), minced garlic, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Make sure everything is well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures that every bite of chicken is bursting with flavor!
Arrange the Chicken in the Crockpot
Next, layer your chicken in the crockpot. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated well. This will help the chicken absorb all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
Slow Cook the Chicken
Now, cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and juicy, easily shredding apart with a fork. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your home as it cooks!
Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, it’s time to thicken that sauce. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the crockpot. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This will give you a luscious, thick sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to serve! You can serve the chicken whole or shred it over a bed of rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that extra pop of flavor and color. Your family will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a one-pot meal.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your taste.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make extra!
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: A slow cooker is essential, but you can use a Dutch oven if you prefer.
- Mixing bowl: For whisking the sauce together; any bowl will do!
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce; a fork works in a pinch!
- Serving utensils: To dish out that delicious chicken.
Variations of Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a fiery kick.
- Honey Garlic Chicken with Vegetables: Toss in chopped bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for a colorful, nutritious twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free while maintaining flavor.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer, juicier dish.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry: After cooking, shred the chicken and stir-fry it with fresh veggies for a quick meal.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Serve over fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side.
- For a refreshing touch, add a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade.
- Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just remember to increase the cooking time by about an hour. The Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken will still turn out delicious and tender.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, simply add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This will give your honey garlic chicken a delightful kick!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken the night before. Just store it in the fridge and pop it in the crockpot the next day for a hassle-free dinner.
What can I serve with Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments. The sweet and savory aroma fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings joy and warmth to family dinners. I love how easy it is to make, allowing me to spend more time with my loved ones. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a cherished favorite in your home!
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Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious dinner after a long day. That’s where my Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken comes to the rescue! This sweet and savory dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have your family gathering around the table in no time. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a flavorful honey garlic sauce, ready to impress your loved ones without the fuss. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer for those hectic weeknights!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (optional for extra depth of flavor)
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional for enhanced flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, hoisin sauce (if using), minced garlic, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a flavorful sauce.
- Arrange the Chicken in the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the crockpot in a single layer. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred apart with a fork.
- Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce inside the crockpot to help it thicken. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the chicken whole or shredded over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Serve with steamed broccoli or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
