Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

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If you’re searching for a crockpot chicken recipe that’s bursting with sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness, look no further than Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken. This slow-cooked masterpiece combines tender, juicy chicken with a sticky honey-garlic glaze that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or looking for a fuss-free dish for entertaining, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the way a slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll enjoy:

  • Set-and-forget convenience – Just load the crockpot in the morning and come home to dinner ready.

  • Mouthwatering flavor – A perfect balance of sweet honey, savory soy, and aromatic garlic.

  • Tender, fall-apart chicken – Slow cooking ensures juicy results every time.

  • Versatility – Serve over rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or with a fresh salad.

If you love easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor, this crockpot chicken is about to become a household favorite.

Ingredients for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

To create this delicious recipe, you’ll need simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s the complete list:

 the Chicken

  • 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)

the Honey Garlic Sauce

  • ½ cup (120 ml) honey – Use pure honey for the best flavor.

  • ¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce

  • ¼ cup (60 ml) chicken broth – Store-bought or homemade.

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for a nutty depth)

  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)

Thickening (Optional)

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 2 tablespoons water

Garnish

  • Sesame seeds

  • Chopped green onions

Required Kitchen Tools

While the crockpot does most of the work, a few tools will make this recipe even easier:

  • Crockpot/Slow Cooker (4–6 quart capacity recommended)

  • Small mixing bowl

  • Whisk

  • Measuring cups & spoons

  • Tongs

  • Small saucepan (if thickening the sauce)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken:

1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken – Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper over both sides of the chicken pieces.

  2. (Optional but recommended) Sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful color.

2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

    • Honey

    • Soy sauce

    • Chicken broth

    • Minced garlic

    • Rice vinegar

    • Sesame oil

    • Red pepper flakes (if using)

  2. Whisk until the honey is fully dissolved and the sauce is well combined.

3: Assemble in the Crockpot

  1. Place the chicken into the crockpot in a single layer.

  2. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken.

4: Slow Cook to Perfection

  • Low setting: 5–6 hours

  • High setting: 2–3 hours
    Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

5: Optional – Thicken the Sauce

  1. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.

  2. In a small saucepan, bring the sauce from the crockpot to a gentle simmer.

  3. Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce.

  4. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

  5. Return chicken to the sauce and coat well.

6: Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken before serving.

  • Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Here are expert tips to take your crockpot chicken to the next level:

  1. Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness – They stay tender and flavorful during long cooking.

  2. Don’t overcook – Even in a slow cooker, chicken can dry out if left too long.

  3. Sear before slow cooking – This step enhances flavor and presentation.

  4. Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey by 2 tablespoons.

  5. Make it spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.

  6. Double the sauce – Perfect if you love extra sauce for drizzling over rice or vegetables.

  7. Meal prep friendly – This dish reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners later in the week.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:

  • With Rice – White jasmine rice, brown rice, or fried rice soak up the sauce beautifully.

  • With Noodles – Egg noodles, rice noodles, or spaghetti for an Asian-inspired twist.

  • With Vegetables – Steamed broccoli, snow peas, or roasted carrots complement the flavors perfectly.

  • With Mashed Potatoes – For a hearty comfort-food dinner.

  • In Wraps – Shred the chicken and tuck into warm tortillas with crunchy veggies.

Approximate Nutritional Value

(Per serving – based on 6 servings using chicken thighs)

  • Calories: 285 kcal

  • Protein: 24 g

  • Carbohydrates: 23 g

  • Sugars: 20 g

  • Fat: 9 g

  • Saturated Fat: 2 g

  • Fiber: 0.3 g

  • Sodium: 580 mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

Why This Crockpot Chicken Recipe is a Keeper

Unlike many recipes that require constant attention, Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken lets you enjoy the day while your slow cooker works its magic. It’s:

  • Family-friendly – Kids love the sweet-savory sauce.

  • Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, simple ingredients.

  • Adaptable – Easily adjusted for spice level, sweetness, or dietary needs.

  • Perfect for meal prep – Make ahead and store for up to 4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but it’s safer to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and best texture.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then do a quick release. Thicken the sauce afterward if desired.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, both cooked and uncooked versions can be frozen. If freezing cooked chicken, store with the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion – Your New Go-To Crockpot Chicken Dinner

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, high-reward dinner recipe, Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is it. With just a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy a tender, flavor-packed meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Sweet honey, rich garlic, and savory soy combine to create a sauce so good, you’ll want to pour it over everything.

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