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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken served on a plate with vegetables

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

A tender, sticky chicken dish simmered in a sweet-savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs stay juicier; breasts are leaner.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup honey Can swap with maple syrup.
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce Use low-sodium if preferred; tamari works for gluten-free.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger Optional, adds bright warmth.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for heat.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional, for thickening.
  • 2 tablespoons water For thickening.
  • Sesame seeds For garnish.
  • Chopped green onions For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with the salt and black pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), vinegar, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  3. Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the slow cooker.
  4. Pour the sauce evenly over the pieces.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. If you prefer a thicker glaze, remove the chicken and set it aside.
  3. Mix the cornstarch with the 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry.
  4. Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
  5. Return the chicken to the slow cooker or spoon the thickened sauce over the pieces.
  6. Garnish each serving with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 800mgSugar: 20g

Notes

Cool leftovers within two hours and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For a lower-sugar version, reduce honey by a few tablespoons and increase soy sauce or add a splash of vinegar for balance.

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