Introduction to Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious meal after a long day. That’s why I absolutely love this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies recipe! It’s not just easy; it’s a lifesaver for those hectic evenings when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies recipe is a game-changer for busy families. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it. The rich, sweet, and tangy flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal packed with protein and veggies, making it a guilt-free choice for any night of the week!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These provide rich flavor and tenderness. You can substitute with boneless thighs or chicken breasts if you prefer.
- Baby red potatoes: Their creamy texture complements the dish perfectly. Feel free to swap them for Yukon gold or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Baby carrots: These add a natural sweetness and vibrant color. Regular carrots can be cut into chunks if you can’t find baby ones.
- Green beans: Fresh or frozen, they add a nice crunch. You can also use broccoli or snap peas for variety.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this herb brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried parsley works too.
- Reduced sodium soy sauce: This is the base of our sauce, providing umami flavor without too much salt. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Honey: It adds sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze. Maple syrup can be a delicious substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor.
- Ketchup: This adds a tangy depth to the sauce. You can use a homemade version or even barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Dried basil and oregano: These herbs enhance the overall flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with Italian seasoning for a different taste.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A little heat goes a long way! Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Ground black pepper: This adds a subtle kick. You can also use white pepper for a milder flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day!
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the reduced sodium soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing all those sweet and savory flavors together!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Next, place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Add the halved baby red potatoes and baby carrots on top. Pour the prepared sauce over everything, ensuring the chicken and veggies are well coated. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Veggies
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you can, baste the chicken with the sauce every hour. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Step 4: Add Green Beans
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the trimmed green beans to the slow cooker. This ensures they stay crisp and vibrant. Stir them gently into the mix, allowing them to soak up the delicious sauce.
Step 5: Optional Broiling for Crispiness
If you want to take your dish to the next level, preheat your oven to broil. Once the chicken is done cooking, transfer the thighs to a baking sheet, skin side up. Broil for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. This step adds a delightful crunch!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken immediately with the potatoes, carrots, and green beans. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with your family, and watch their faces light up with joy!
Tips for Success
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the basting; it keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on the stove for a few minutes.
- Leftovers are great for meal prep; store them in airtight containers!
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart slow cooker: Essential for this recipe. A smaller one can work, but cooking time may vary.
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients. Any bowl will do!
- Whisk or spoon: To mix the sauce. A fork can work in a pinch.
- Baking sheet: Optional for broiling the chicken. A broiler pan is a great alternative.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a plant-based meal.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
- Sweet and Tangy: Mix in a splash of apple cider vinegar or orange juice for a zesty flavor boost.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Serve with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- For a pop of color, garnish with extra parsley or sesame seeds.
- Use colorful plates to make the meal visually appealing!
FAQs about Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs! Just remember to increase the cooking time by about an hour. The slow cooker will work its magic, ensuring they’re tender and flavorful.
What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, maple syrup works wonderfully. It adds a unique flavor while keeping that sweet touch. Agave nectar is another great option!
How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
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!
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the veggies you choose.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. It’s a delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities!
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies recipe embodies that spirit. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about the time saved and the smiles shared around the dinner table. I love how this dish brings my family together, creating moments of laughter and connection. Plus, the ease of preparation means I can focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with my loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of slow cooking, and enjoy the delightful journey this recipe offers!
Print
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious meal after a long day. That’s why I absolutely love this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies recipe! It’s not just easy; it’s a lifesaver for those hectic evenings when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet and savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved
- 16 ounces baby carrots
- 16 ounces green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, ketchup, garlic, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots and soy sauce mixture into a 6-qt slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, basting every hour.
- Add green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
- OPTIONAL: Preheat oven to broil. Place chicken thighs onto a baking sheet, skin side up, and broil until crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Serve chicken immediately with potatoes, carrots and green beans, garnished with parsley, if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ingredients.
- Adjust the level of spice by modifying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
