Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

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🐔 Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Description

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a tender, flavorful dish made with juicy chicken simmered in a sweet-and-savory sauce of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and aromatics. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb deep flavors while staying moist and fall-apart tender. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1½–2 lb (680–900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

  • ½ cup honey

  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • ¼ cup ketchup

  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for depth of flavor)

  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon dried ginger (or 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger)

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 2 tablespoons water

  • Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce
    In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, vinegar, sesame oil, pepper, and ginger.

  2. Add to Slow Cooker
    Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Turn chicken to coat evenly.

  3. Cook

    • Low: 4–5 hours

    • High: 2–3 hours
      Chicken should be fully cooked and tender.

  4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
    Remove chicken and keep warm. Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce. Cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

  5. Serve
    Return chicken to the sauce, spoon over generously, and garnish if desired.

📝 Recipe Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but chicken breasts work well if not overcooked.

  • Sauce will thin out due to chicken juices; thickening is recommended.

  • Flavor improves slightly after resting for 5–10 minutes before serving.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to prevent overpowering saltiness.

  • For extra garlic flavor, add a clove during the last 30 minutes.

  • Shred the chicken for serving over rice or in wraps.

  • Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat kick.

  • Line the slow cooker with a liner for easy cleanup.

 Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

  • Serving Size: ~1 cup chicken with sauce

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 320–350 kcal

  • Protein: 28–32 g

  • Carbohydrates: 28–32 g

  • Sugars: 22–25 g

  • Fat: 8–10 g

  • Sodium: 650–750 mg

(Values vary based on ingredients and portion size.)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.

  • Garlic: Contains antioxidants and may support immune health.

  • Slow Cooking: Preserves moisture and reduces need for added fats.

  • Balanced Flavor Profile: Satisfies sweet and savory cravings, reducing overeating.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to thaw chicken first for even cooking and food safety.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze honey garlic chicken?
A: Absolutely. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

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