Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a mouthwatering sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and garlic. The result is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Using a slow cooker makes this dish incredibly simple. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day. Plus, the slow cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken!
Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich flavors of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
These ingredients are not only easy to find but also work together to create a deliciously sticky and flavorful sauce. The honey adds sweetness, while the soy sauce and ketchup provide a savory depth. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and aroma, making this dish irresistible. If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
Preparation of Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. This process is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy days. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need. Gather all the ingredients listed above. Having everything in one place will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, it helps you avoid any last-minute trips to the store!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken thighs and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce better. Once dried, you can cut the chicken into smaller pieces if you prefer. However, cooking them whole will keep them juicy and tender.
Step 3: Mix the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This sauce is the heart of your dish, so make sure it’s mixed thoroughly. The sweet and savory notes will create a delicious coating for the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece of chicken is well coated with the sauce. This will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for about 30 minutes for even more flavor.
Step 5: Set the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The low setting is ideal if you want to let the flavors develop slowly while you go about your day. Either way, the chicken will turn out tender and delicious!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken over rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for that extra touch!
Enjoy the delightful flavors and the compliments from your family and friends. This dish is sure to be a hit!
Variation of Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to mix things up! Whether you want to try alternative ingredients or explore different cooking methods, these variations will keep your meals exciting and flavorful.
Alternative Ingredients
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand, or you may want to try something new. Here are some alternative ingredients you can use:
- Chicken Breasts: For a leaner option, swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster.
- Maple Syrup: If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be a great substitute. It adds a unique flavor while still providing sweetness.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: For a healthier option, use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetables: Add some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the slow cooker for extra nutrition and color. They will soak up the delicious sauce as they cook.
- Fresh Ginger: Instead of ground ginger, try using fresh ginger for a more vibrant flavor. Just peel and mince it before adding it to the sauce.
Different Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a slow cooker or want to speed up the process, there are other cooking methods you can try:
- Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to cook the garlic and ginger first. Then, add the chicken and sauce ingredients. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes. Quick and easy!
- Stovetop: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and brown it on both sides. Then, pour in the sauce and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce over it, and cover with foil. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken experience. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that your family loves the most!
Cooking Note for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, there are a few important cooking notes to keep in mind. These tips will help ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time, making it a delightful experience for you and your loved ones.
First, always use a reliable slow cooker. The cooking time can vary based on the model and size of your slow cooker. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to check the chicken for doneness a little earlier than the suggested cooking time. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Next, consider the size of your chicken pieces. If you cut the chicken thighs into smaller chunks, they may cook faster. On the other hand, cooking them whole will keep them juicy and flavorful. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Another key point is to avoid lifting the lid of the slow cooker too often. Each time you open the lid, heat escapes, which can extend the cooking time. Trust the process and let the slow cooker do its magic!
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken a rich, sticky glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken.
By following these cooking notes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aromas that will fill your kitchen!
Serving Suggestions for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, it’s time to think about how to serve it! The way you present this dish can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to consider:
- Over Rice: A classic choice! Serve the honey garlic chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite delightful.
- With Noodles: For a twist, try serving the chicken over cooked noodles. Egg noodles or rice noodles work wonderfully. The combination of tender chicken and noodles is sure to please!
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, use large lettuce leaves to create wraps. Fill each leaf with shredded chicken and top with extra sauce, green onions, and sesame seeds. It’s a fun and healthy way to enjoy the dish!
- With Steamed Vegetables: Pair the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. This adds color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the flavors of the chicken.
- As a Sandwich: For a unique twist, use the shredded chicken to make sandwiches. Place it on a bun with some coleslaw for crunch. This makes for a tasty lunch or casual dinner option!
Don’t forget to garnish your dish! A sprinkle of sliced green onions and sesame seeds adds a beautiful touch and enhances the flavor. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and find what your family loves best!
Tips for Perfecting Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken truly shine, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you in achieving the best flavor and texture, ensuring that every bite is delicious!
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it even tastier.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and ginger. Fresh ingredients provide a more vibrant flavor compared to dried or powdered versions.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more honey. Conversely, if you like it less sweet, reduce the honey slightly. Tailor the recipe to your taste!
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you’re using chicken breasts. They can cook faster than thighs, so check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch to your slurry. Mix it with water and stir it into the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs. A dash of paprika or a sprinkle of cilantro can enhance the flavor profile and add a unique twist.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3-4 days, making for a quick and easy meal later on.
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
Breakdown of Time for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken can help you plan your meal better. Here’s a simple breakdown of the time involved in this delicious recipe.
Prep Time
The prep time for this dish is quite minimal. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes to gather your ingredients, prepare the chicken, and mix the honey garlic sauce. This quick prep time makes it easy to fit this recipe into your busy schedule.
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, the cooking time will depend on your choice of settings. If you cook on low, it will take about 6-7 hours. On the other hand, if you opt for the high setting, it will take around 3-4 hours. Either way, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Total Time
In total, you can expect to spend about 6 hours and 15 minutes to 7 hours and 20 minutes from start to finish. This includes both prep and cooking time. The best part? You can set it and forget it, making it a perfect meal for busy days!
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Nutritional Information for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken not only delights your taste buds but also provides valuable nutrients. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional information for this delicious dish.
Calories
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken contains approximately 320 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for dinner without overwhelming your daily caloric intake. The combination of chicken and sauce provides a hearty meal that keeps you feeling full and energized.
Protein
Protein is a vital nutrient for building and repairing tissues, and this dish delivers! Each serving offers about 24 grams of protein. The boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, making this recipe a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Sodium
When it comes to sodium, each serving contains around 800 milligrams. While this is a reasonable amount for a flavorful dish, it’s important to be mindful of your overall sodium intake throughout the day. If you’re watching your sodium levels, consider using low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content without sacrificing flavor.
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken while also making informed choices about your diet. This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of calories, protein, and flavor!
FAQs about Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, you might have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you along the way:
Can I use frozen chicken for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s best to cook it on the low setting for about 8 hours. This ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and remains tender. Just make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How long can I store leftovers of Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
What can I serve with Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it over rice or noodles, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even in lettuce wraps make great accompaniments. Feel free to get creative!
Can I make Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before. Just store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, combine them in the slow cooker and set it to cook. This makes for a hassle-free dinner when you come home!
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious meal that awaits!
FAQs about Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, you might have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you along the way:
Can I use frozen chicken for Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s best to cook it on the low setting for about 8 hours. This ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and remains tender. Just make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How long can I store leftovers of Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
What can I serve with Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it over rice or noodles, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even in lettuce wraps make great accompaniments. Feel free to get creative!
Can I make Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before. Just store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, combine them in the slow cooker and set it to cook. This makes for a hassle-free dinner when you come home!
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious meal that awaits!
Conclusion on Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can prepare a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
The balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce, along with the aromatic garlic and ginger, creates a delightful sauce that clings to the tender chicken. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps, this dish is versatile and satisfying. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, making it a great option for meal prep.
As you explore this recipe, don’t hesitate to make it your own. Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to find the perfect combination that suits your taste. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment!
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Print
Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken delights!
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Tender, juicy chicken cooked low and slow in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce—this set-it-and-forget-it meal is weeknight gold.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
Instructions
Place chicken in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, basil, and pepper. Pour over chicken.
Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Optional: Mix cornstarch with water, stir into sauce, and cook on high for 15 minutes to thicken.
Serve with rice or steamed vegetables
Notes
- Use chicken breasts if preferred.
- Add sesame seeds or green onions for garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
