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Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

crockpot honey garlic chicken - featured image

This easy crockpot honey garlic chicken is a sweet, savory, and garlicky slow cooker dinner perfect for busy families. Tender chicken thighs are coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce that’s sure to become a weeknight staple.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
  3. Arrange chicken thighs in the bottom of a slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  5. Optional: Remove chicken and set aside. Pour sauce into a small saucepan. Whisk cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the sauce. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until glossy and thick. Alternatively, add the cornstarch slurry directly into the slow cooker, turn to HIGH, and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Return chicken to the sauce and coat all pieces well.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Notes

For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Chicken breasts can be substituted but monitor cooking time to prevent drying out. Add bell peppers, snap peas, or pineapple for a twist. Sauce thickens best with cornstarch slurry. Flavors deepen overnight—great for leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, honey garlic chicken, slow cooker, easy dinner, family meal, Asian chicken, sticky chicken, comfort food, gluten-free option, meal prep