Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

The slow cooker is a wonderful appliance that can cook dinner for you while you are at work or running errands. If you’re searching for a set it and forget it easy honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs for beginners, this recipe is for you.

This recipe for Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs is a really simple recipe to follow, even for novice cooks in the kitchen.

When you combine the honey and garlic, your chicken will take on a delicious flavor that cannot be beat! If you’re someone who loves combining savory and sweet, you won’t want to pass up on this simple honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs meal. It’s not only deliciously comforting and satisfying, but it’s considered a family friendly honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs dinner!

This recipe only requires a few ingredients and a few spices. What makes this recipe great is that it’s customizable, allowing you to make it in a way that your family will enjoy.

The recipe does call for chicken thighs. However, you can easily swap chicken breast for reduced fat instead.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor: Your family is going to love the flavor of this chicken. The sweet honey glaze paired with plenty of garlic results in a rustic, out-of-this-world flavor. If you’re seeking a truly tasty, yet quick honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs recipe, you’ve hit the jackpot.
• Simple Ingredients: This healthy honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs version is not only flavorful, but simple to put together with your handy crockpot.
• Versatility: Swap ketchup for another sauce, such as Worcestershire sauce, depending on your taste preferences and whether you have a household of picky eaters. You can also use a barbecue sauce if you’re in the mood to get creative.
• Healthy: Using either chicken thighs or breasts as a substitute is possible for this healthy dish.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Boneless chicken thighs: If you’re browsing homemade honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs ideas but you want to cut back on the fat you’re consuming, swap the boneless thighs for boneless chicken breasts or tenderloins.
• Ketchup: Using a barbecue sauce or Worcestershire that pairs well with honey.
• Variations: Of course there are variations for this recipe! Not only can you use a different cut of chicken, such as chicken breast, but you can also add spice to give the dish a little bit of heat. Adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder can significantly change the flavor of your dish with a bit of a spicy kick. You can also use Cajun flavoring, depending on the type of honey and the amount of garlic you prefer. You can also change the amount of honey or garlic that you use to suit your tastes.

Ingredients:

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Soy sauce
• Ketchup
• Minced garlic
• Dried basil
• Honey

How to Make It

Step 1. Place the chicken thighs into the bottom of the slow cooker. Try to fit your chicken thighs evenly into the slow cooker so they’re spaced apart for the seasoning. This will allow for maximum coverage once you pour your honey garlic mixture into the crockpot.

Step 2. In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients and whisk together. Whisking the ingredients separately will ensure a thoroughly combined mixture. This will make it easier to spread and pour the mixture over your chicken thighs (or breasts if you’re substituting the thighs). This makes for the best honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs recipe that’s simple and straightforward.

Adding honey.

Step 3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, distributing it evenly.

Step 4. Cook the chicken on low for 6 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can cook the chicken on high for 4 hours. However, cooking the chicken low and slow will result in tender chicken that falls apart. Delicious!

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Tips for Success

• Time: If you have the time, cook these easy honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs for beginners on low in your crockpot. If you’re using an Instapot, be sure to read instructions on cooking chicken thighs ahead of time. Cooking your thighs or breasts on low will allow the chicken to retain moisture and fall apart, as opposed to drying the chicken out prematurely. However, if you’re in a rush, cooking this recipe on high for 4 hours should result in a similar texture.

Storage & Reheating

How can I store the leftover chicken?

Once the chicken is cooled to room temperature, move it into an airtight container. Place the container into the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can honey garlic chicken thighs be frozen?

Yes, the honey garlic chicken thighs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure that the food has cooled to room temperature and then place it in a freezer-safe container.

How can I reheat honey garlic chicken thighs?

To reheat, simply preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the chicken in a dish and cover with aluminum foil. Then, place the dish in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

What to Serve With Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables (including Roasted Cherry Tomatoes), rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side salad for a lighter meal.

Adding a salad and light veggies makes this a completely healthy honey garlic slow cooker chicken thighs version that is family-friendly and kid-approved!

Notes

If you’re planning to substitute ketchup for another barbecue sauce, it’s wise to mix your honey and garlic mixture with a bit of the sauce in advance. This will help you detect flavor profiles and to determine if the sauce is a good fit for you and your family before adding the mixture into the crockpot!

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