Looking for a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s both delicious and effortless? This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect solution! Tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will be your new go-to.
With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day! Let’s dive into this mouthwatering honey garlic chicken recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Hands-Off Cooking – Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
✅ Tender & Juicy Chicken – Slow-cooking ensures moist, flavorful chicken every time.
✅ Sweet & Savory Sauce – A perfect balance of honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Makes delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day.
✅ Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Here’s what you need to make this easy, flavorful dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds & green onions (for garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well until the sauce is fully combined.
Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once done, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal!
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken
- For More Flavor – Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before slow cooking.
- Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicier than chicken breasts during slow cooking.
- Want it Crispier? – After shredding, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes for crispy edges.
- Make it Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha.
- Use Fresh Garlic & Ginger – It makes a huge difference in flavor!
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken
Pair this dish with any of these tasty sides:
🥢 Steamed White or Brown Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
🥦 Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Adds a fresh and crunchy contrast.
🥕 Stir-Fried Vegetables – Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas work great.
🍜 Noodles – Serve over lo mein, ramen, or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~290 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Sugar: 22g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! If using frozen chicken, cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours to ensure it’s fully cooked.
❓ Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cook on HIGH pressure for 10 minutes, then quick-release and thicken the sauce using the cornstarch slurry.
❓ How long does this last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
❓ Can I freeze honey garlic chicken?
Yes! Let it cool, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and family-friendly meal that’s perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. With its sweet and savory sauce and tender, juicy chicken, it’s guaranteed to become a household favorite!
Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you liked it in the comments! 🍯🐔
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