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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a deliciously tender and flavorful dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners. Chicken thighs are simmered low and slow in a perfectly balanced sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and garlic, creating a savory-sweet glaze with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. A set-it-and-forget-it recipe that results in juicy chicken infused with rich flavors, served topped with fresh green onions for a burst of color and freshness.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (can substitute with chicken breasts)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for heat)

Toppings

  • Sliced green onions, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Lightly season the boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides. Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker insert in an even layer.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. This mixture will create the sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
  3. Add sauce to slow cooker: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated.
  4. Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and infused with the sauce.
  5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and either cut into chunks or shred using two forks. Return the shredded or chopped chicken back to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Let it sit for at least 5-10 minutes to absorb the juices.
  6. Serve: Serve the honey garlic chicken hot, topped with sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast. Enjoy as a main dish alongside rice or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • For less sweetness, reduce honey slightly or omit if preferred.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels in the dish.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on your heat preference.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and make great sandwiches or wraps.