Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is an easy dinner made with tender chicken thighs cooked slowly in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and fresh garlic creates a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- Easy slow cooker dinner
- Tender, juicy chicken
- Sweet and savory honey garlic sauce
- Uses simple ingredients
- Perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Turn the chicken to coat it evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Thicken the sauce: Remove the chicken and transfer the liquid to a small saucepan. Mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Coat the chicken: Return the chicken to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over it. Gently coat the chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm over rice or noodles.
Tips for Making Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
- Chicken thighs stay especially tender during slow cooking, but chicken breasts can also be used.
- Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently while cooking.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a little sriracha.
- Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dinner that requires very little hands-on preparation. The tender chicken and rich honey garlic sauce make it perfect served over fluffy rice for an easy family meal.
