Slow Cooker Honey Garlic is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken features tender, juicy chicken thighs that soak up a sticky, sweet, and tangy honey garlic sauce. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is pure bliss, making it hard to resist. Let’s dive into this incredible dish that will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

This Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Recipe is not just easy to prepare; it’s packed with flavor and versatility. Here are some reasons why you’ll love it:

Minimal prep time: Just mix the sauce and toss it in the slow cooker.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers.
Versatile: Great with chicken, pork, or even vegetables.
Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet and savory flavors.
Healthy option: Gluten-free and packed with protein.
Easy cleanup: One pot means less mess.

This dish is a wonderful addition to your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken repertoire!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

Gather these items:

1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Hot cooked rice
Sliced green onion and sesame seeds, for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the diced onion, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and place them in the slow cooker. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Add the honey garlic mixture and gently stir to combine.
Step 3: Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours. Check that the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F).
Step 4: Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix a small amount of the cooking liquid with cornstarch to create a slurry. Pour this mixture back into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Step 6: Cook on high for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 7: Serve the chicken over hot cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onion.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the honey amount.
For a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes.

Remember, this recipe is a Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken dish that suits your busy lifestyle!

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Pile on steamed broccoli or other favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
Use as a filling for tacos or wraps for a fun twist.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick honey garlic slow cooker meal any day of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Honey Garlic?

The key is to ensure your chicken is fully cooked and to let the sauce thicken at the end. This will give you that perfect sticky texture that makes this dish so delicious!

Can I make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for a quick and easy meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic?

Make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can prevent proper cooking. Also, always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Variations of Slow Cooker Honey Garlic You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations:

For a pork twist, use boneless pork ribs instead of chicken thighs.
Add in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Try making Honey Garlic Meatballs in Slow Cooker for a fun appetizer option.

With so many options, you can customize this dish to your taste, making it an exciting addition to your meal rotation!

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: 3 Easy Steps to Delight - Slow Cooker Honey Garlic - main visual representation

For more delicious slow cooker recipes, check out our Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef or Slow Cooker Chicken Chorizo.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: 3 Easy Steps to Delight - Slow Cooker Honey Garlic - additional detail

For more tips on meal prep, consider checking out Creamy Cauliflower Soup or Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta.