Delicious Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: Easy Recipe & Serving Ideas

There’s something magical about a slow cooker that turns simple ingredients into a delicious meal with minimal effort.

One of my all-time favorite dishes is Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken.

It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Ingredient List

To prepare my delicious Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, I gather the following ingredients, ensuring everything is ready to create that perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

• Chicken Thighs: 2 pounds boneless skinless thighs for juicy tenderness
• Honey: 1/2 cup pure honey to add natural sweetness
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce for a savory kick
• Garlic: 4 cloves minced for aromatic depth
• Ginger: 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger for a hint of warmth
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons to thicken the sauce
• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon for garnish, adding a nutty flavor
• Green Onions: 2 chopped, also for garnish and a fresh crunch

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’ll not only satisfy my taste buds but also fill my kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Begin by seasoning 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Mix the Sauce
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of pure honey, 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. The combination of sweet and savory aromas will make your mouth water.
3. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
   Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Pour the honey-garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
4. Slow Cook
   Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. The low and slow cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the flavors.
5. Thicken the Sauce
   About 30 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
6. Check for Doneness
   After the cooking time, check that the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can shred it directly in the slow cooker if desired.
7. Serve
   Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Spoon the thickened sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.
8. Garnish
   Sprinkle the chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and crunch.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, there are several notes and variations I like to keep in mind for a personalized touch.

Adjusting Sweetness

If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the amount of honey to 1/3 cup. Alternatively, for a more intense sweetness, add an extra tablespoon or two.

Spice It Up

To bring some heat to the dish, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. I usually add about 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild kick.

Vegetable Additions

Consider adding vegetables to enhance the meal’s nutrition and texture. Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots work great when added to the slow cooker for the last 2 hours of cooking.

Chicken Options

While I love using boneless skinless chicken thighs for tenderness, chicken breasts can also be used. However, I recommend reducing the cooking time to ensure they do not dry out.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos. This keeps the dish delicious while accommodating gluten restrictions.

Meal Prep

I enjoy making this dish ahead of time. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even better. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa. I also like serving it alongside a fresh vegetable salad for a well-rounded meal.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken in a few delightful ways that really complement its sweet and savory flavor. Here are my favorite serving suggestions:

1. Over Steamed Rice
   I always prepare a bed of fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the thickened honey garlic sauce. The rice provides a perfect canvas for the flavorful chicken and makes every bite satisfying.
2. With Quinoa
   For a healthier twist, I sometimes serve it over quinoa. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs well with the sweetness of the honey garlic marinade and adds a protein boost to the meal.
3. In Lettuce Wraps
   I love to make fresh lettuce wraps using butter lettuce or Romaine leaves. I simply scoop some shredded chicken onto the leaves and add a bit of extra sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions gives it a nice crunch.
4. With Roasted Vegetables
   I often roast seasonal vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots in the oven. The caramelized flavors of the veggies beautifully complement the tender chicken.
5. As a Salad Topping
   I like to slice or shred the chicken and toss it on top of a fresh salad. Mixed greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette balance the sweet richness of the chicken.
6. In Tacos
   Sometimes I transform the dish into tacos. I load soft corn tortillas with seasoned chicken, top with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.

Nutrition Information

When I prepare my Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, I love knowing the nutrition information to stay mindful of what I’m serving.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving based on the entire recipe serving approximately six servings.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	270
Total Fat	6 g
Saturated Fat	1 g
Cholesterol	115 mg
Sodium	450 mg
Total Carbohydrates	36 g
Dietary Fiber	1 g
Sugars	21 g
Protein	21 g

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Key Nutritional Benefits

• Protein: Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein which is essential for muscle repairing and overall body function.
• Low in Saturated Fat: Using boneless skinless chicken thighs keeps the saturated fat content low making it a healthier meat option.
• Moderate Carbohydrates: The honey contributes sugars but also delivers a touch of energy, perfect for an active lifestyle.

Considerations

If you’re looking to lower the sodium content, using low-sodium soy sauce and adjusting seasonings can help.

For a reduced calorie option, consider pairing the chicken with a fresh vegetable salad instead of rice or quinoa to keep the meal light.

Being aware of the nutritional information allows me to enjoy this delicious dish while also maintaining a balanced diet.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken as I am to share it with you.

This dish not only fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love.

With its versatility and ease of preparation it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.

Don’t hesitate to make it your own by playing with the ingredients or serving it in different ways.

I can’t wait to hear how your version turns out! Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!

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