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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

A sweet and savory slow-cooked chicken dish that's simple to make and loved by both kids and adults.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 370
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs are juicier, breasts can dry out quicker.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup honey Provides sweetness.
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce Low sodium preferred.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup Adds body and mild tang.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic backbone.
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional) Adds brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar Balances sweetness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Optional for heat.
For Thickening (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch For thickening the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons water To mix with cornstarch.
Garnish
  • Sesame seeds For garnish.
  • Chopped green onions For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Lightly season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  2. (Optional) For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Simmer over medium heat until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Return the chicken to the slow cooker or pour the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the slow cooker and ensure proper seasoning. Use pre-minced garlic for convenience if necessary. You can add firmer vegetables at the start for a more substantial meal.