Delicious honey-garlic slow-cooker chicken served on a plate

Honey-Garlic Slow-Cooker Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Honey-Garlic Slow-Cooker Chicken is a fantastic choice for a simple and delicious meal. This recipe combines sweet honey, flavorful garlic, and tender chicken for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease; just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or a casual gathering, this dish is their go-to.

How to Make Honey-Garlic Slow-Cooker Chicken

Ingredients

  • 800 g (1 lb 12 oz) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with 3 tbsp water
  • 2 spring onions (scallions), finely sliced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Steamed jasmine rice, to serve
  • Steamed greens, to serve
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) tamari or all-purpose soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup (115 g) runny honey
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated garlic
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

Directions

  1. Add the chicken thighs to a slow cooker. If you want to use a pressure cooker, check the note for cooking time.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the sauce ingredients: tamari or soy sauce, honey, ketchup, rice wine vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the chicken.
  3. Cook the chicken on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6 hours.
  4. About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, add the cornflour and water mixture to the sauce. Baste the chicken with the sauce during this time.
  5. When ready, sprinkle the chicken with spring onions and sesame seeds. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice and steamed greens.

How to Serve Honey-Garlic Slow-Cooker Chicken

This dish is best served warm. Place the tender honey-garlic chicken on a plate and drizzle some sauce over it. Add a generous scoop of steamed jasmine rice on the side, along with steamed greens like broccoli or bok choy. Garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch.

How to Store Honey-Garlic Slow-Cooker Chicken

If you have leftovers, let them cool before storing them. Keep the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Honey-Garlic Slow-Cooker Chicken

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a couple of hours before cooking.
  • Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to your taste.

Variation

If you want to try something different, add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the slow cooker. They will add color, crunch, and nutrients to your dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be aware they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this dish in a pressure cooker?
A: Yes! If using a pressure cooker, cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Steamed jasmine rice and greens are ideal accompaniments. You can also serve it with quinoa or over noodles for a different twist.