Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a savory-sweet, tender dish that practically cooks itself. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few hours in the slow cooker, this meal delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The chicken becomes fall-apart tender, coated in a sticky, garlicky honey sauce that’s perfect over rice, noodles, or vegetables—making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken thighs or breastshoneylow-sodium soy sauceketchupminced garliconion (optional)cornstarchwatergreen onions (for garnish)sesame seeds (for garnish)

directions

Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.

In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and minced garlic. Pour the mixture over the chicken.

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce in the slow cooker.

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix to coat in the thickened sauce. Let cook for another 10-15 minutes.

Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on highFinal prep time: 10-15 minutesTotal time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours

Variations

Use chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for more flavor.

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Incorporate sliced bell peppers or broccoli for added vegetables.

Serve over mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice instead of white rice.

Use hoisin sauce instead of ketchup for a deeper umami flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, simmer everything in a covered pot on the stove for 45-60 minutes, or bake in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

Use two forks, or a stand mixer on low speed for faster shredding.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough and increase the cooking time slightly.

Do I need to sear the chicken first?

No searing is necessary—just place it directly in the slow cooker.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce mixture.

What sides go well with this?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or even a fresh salad.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Use the cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking to thicken the sauce.

Can I use garlic powder instead of minced garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic gives a better depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and effortless meal that’s full of rich, comforting flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your rotation. Whether served over rice or paired with vegetables, it’s a satisfying dish the whole family will love.