Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
This slow-cooker honey garlic chicken is a tender and comforting dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup honey reduce to 1/4 cup for less sweetness
- 1/3 cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for heat
For thickening (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
To finish
- to taste sesame seeds
- to taste chopped green onions
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly season the chicken on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, turning pieces so they’re well coated.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally and is very tender.
- For a thicker, glossy sauce: remove the chicken and strain or transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Whisk cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir into the simmering sauce. Cook 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the slow cooker or pour the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt; tamari can be used for gluten-free. For a citrus twist, swap honey for fresh orange juice.