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Easy Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe for Perfect Family Meals

slow cooker honey garlic chicken - featured image

A simple, hands-off slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken thighs in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup (85g) pure honey
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and water until well combined.
  2. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, coating each piece. Do not stir.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  5. About 15 minutes before serving, remove chicken to a serving dish and cover to keep warm.
  6. Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth, then stir into the slow cooker sauce.
  7. Turn slow cooker to HIGH and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens to a glossy glaze.
  8. Return chicken to the slow cooker or pour thickened sauce over chicken on the serving dish.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for best texture. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently to maintain heat. If sauce is too thin after thickening, repeat cornstarch slurry step in small increments. Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor. Can substitute chicken breasts but reduce cooking time and watch for dryness. For gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freeze well.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, honey garlic chicken, easy dinner, family meals, crockpot recipe, chicken thighs, weeknight dinner