There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm plate of chicken thighs, especially when they’re simmered in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This dish always brings me back to family dinners at my grandmother’s house. She would whip up her own version of this recipe, filling the air with the most delightful aroma that made everyone gather around the table. Cooking it in a crock pot makes everything so easy; you can set it and forget it while you go about your day. The best part? When you finally lift the lid, you’re greeted with tender chicken that practically falls off the bone, coated in that rich, sticky sauce. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to for cozy nights in or even when you’re entertaining guests. So, let’s get cooking and experience that delicious nostalgia together!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful crock pot honey garlic chicken thighs. I promise, it’s simple and straightforward!

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on for extra flavor, if you like!)
• 1/4 cup honey (this is where the sweetness comes from!)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (adds that lovely umami flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better, if you ask me!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (helps with browning, but not essential)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (for a little warmth and spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste (season it just right!)

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start. It’ll make the process smoother, and you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen! Plus, don’t forget to wash your hands after handling raw chicken—safety first!

How to Prepare Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the simple yet satisfying process of making this delicious dish! I promise, it’s as easy as pie—well, easier, actually, since there’s no baking involved! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a meal that warms the heart.

1. First things first, grab your crock pot and place those lovely chicken thighs right in there. You can use either frozen or thawed chicken, but if they’re frozen, make sure to add a little extra cooking time—about 30 minutes will do the trick!
2. Now, let’s make that honey garlic sauce, which is the star of the show! In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and those 3 cloves of minced garlic. Add in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. You’ll want to smell that amazing aroma already!
3. Carefully pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the crock pot. Make sure they’re all nicely coated. Don’t worry if some sauce runs to the bottom; it’ll infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
4. Now, cover your crock pot with its lid. Here’s the fun part—set it to low and let it cook for about 6-7 hours, or if you’re in a bit of a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours. Just remember, low and slow is the way to go for the most tender results!
5. When the time’s up, it’s important to check that chicken for doneness. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, just cut into the thickest part of the thigh to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
6. Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve those juicy chicken thighs with a generous drizzle of that sweet and sticky sauce. I love to pair it with fluffy rice or steamed vegetables—such a comforting combination!

And there you have it! A simple, fuss-free recipe that brings comfort to the dinner table. I can already picture you enjoying this meal with family or friends, and I just know it’ll become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep work, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days.
• Comforting Flavor: The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Healthy Protein Source: Chicken thighs are not only flavorful but also a great source of protein to keep you satisfied.
• Versatile for Dietary Preferences: You can easily substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option, or adjust the sauce to fit your taste buds!
• Easy to Serve: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or vegetables, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this delightful crock pot honey garlic chicken thighs, here are some handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!

• Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot: Make sure to leave some space between the chicken thighs. This allows the heat to circulate properly and helps the chicken cook evenly. If you’re making a larger batch, consider using a bigger pot or cooking in two separate batches.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more honey. Conversely, if you like it on the savory side, you can reduce the honey a tad. It’s all about your personal taste!
• Check for Doneness: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer handy, just cut into the thickest part of the thigh. If the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink, you’re good to go!
• Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and juicy.
• Stir Occasionally: If you can, give the chicken a gentle stir halfway through the cooking process. This helps to ensure that every piece gets that delicious sauce coating!
• Save the Leftovers: If you happen to have any chicken left over, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It makes for a wonderful lunch the next day! Just reheat gently to keep it moist.

With these tips, I’m sure you’ll create a meal that’s not just tasty but also comforting. Happy cooking!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Let’s talk about some of the ingredients in this recipe and how you can easily swap them out to fit your diet or preferences! I love that cooking can be so flexible, so don’t hesitate to make these changes if they suit you better.

• Chicken Thighs: While I adore using bone-in chicken thighs for their flavor and tenderness, you can absolutely use boneless thighs if you prefer. They’ll cook a bit faster too! Alternatively, if you want a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu. Just cut it into cubes and let it soak up that delicious sauce!
• Honey: If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will still give you that lovely sweetness without compromising the flavor. You could also use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake, just check the conversion ratio to get it right.
• Soy Sauce: For those who need to lower their sodium intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce. It still provides that fantastic umami flavor without the extra salt. If you’re avoiding soy altogether, coconut aminos is a great alternative that works wonderfully in this recipe.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is my favorite, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can use garlic powder instead—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick. Just keep in mind that fresh garlic gives a bolder flavor!
• Ground Ginger: If you don’t have ground ginger, you can use fresh ginger instead. Just grate about a tablespoon of fresh ginger and add it to the sauce. It adds a lovely warmth to the dish! If ginger isn’t your thing, feel free to leave it out—this dish will still be delicious.
• Olive Oil: The olive oil is optional in this recipe, but if you want to add a bit of richness, you could use sesame oil instead for an Asian twist. Alternatively, any neutral oil will work if you prefer to skip it altogether.

These substitutions not only cater to different dietary needs but also allow you to make this recipe your own. Cooking should be enjoyable and suited to your taste, so feel free to mix and match! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s take a look at the nutritional information for this delightful crock pot honey garlic chicken thighs. Knowing the nutritional aspects can help you make informed decisions while enjoying your meal!

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g (a great source to keep you feeling full and energized)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (perfect for a balanced meal)
• Sugar: 10g (mostly from the honey, adding that sweet touch)
• Fat: 10g (including healthy fats from the chicken)
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg (just something to keep in mind, especially if you’re watching your salt intake)
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Fiber: 0g (consider serving it with veggies for added fiber!)

This recipe is not only delicious but also packs a good punch of protein and flavor. If you’re looking to make it even healthier, consider pairing it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy every comforting bite!

FAQ Section

I’m glad you’re excited to try this crock pot honey garlic chicken thighs recipe! Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you as you cook:

How long does it take to cook in the crock pot?

If you set your crock pot to low, it takes about 6-7 hours for the chicken to become fall-off-the-bone tender. If you’re in a pinch, you can set it to high, and it’ll be ready in about 3-4 hours. Just remember, the longer it cooks on low, the more flavorful it becomes!

Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the chicken cool down, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep it moist.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken thighs! They’ll cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them and start checking for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high or about 5 hours on low.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?

No worries! If soy sauce isn’t available, you can substitute it with coconut aminos for a soy-free option. It still adds that lovely umami flavor without the soy. You could also use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully! Just let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

What should I serve with this dish?

I love serving it with fluffy rice or steamed vegetables, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up that delicious honey garlic sauce. It makes for a complete and satisfying meal!

I hope these FAQs help you as you prepare this comforting dish. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful crock pot honey garlic chicken thighs, let’s talk about what to serve it with to create a complete and satisfying meal! Trust me, the right sides can elevate this dish to a whole new level.

• Fluffy Rice: A classic choice! Steamed white or brown rice is perfect for soaking up that sweet and savory sauce. You could even try jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist!
• Steamed Vegetables: Bright, colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans add a nice crunch and freshness to your plate. Just steam them lightly to keep their vibrant color and nutrients.
• Mashed Potatoes: If you’re in the mood for something extra comforting, creamy mashed potatoes can be a fantastic accompaniment. They’re great for soaking up all that delicious sauce too!
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. You could add some avocado or nuts for extra texture!
• Crusty Bread: A nice loaf of crusty bread or dinner rolls is perfect for mopping up the sticky honey garlic sauce. It makes every bite even more enjoyable!
• Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, quinoa is packed with protein and has a lovely nutty flavor. It’s a great base for the chicken and can be mixed with herbs for added flavor.

Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy most! I love how versatile this dish is, and the right accompaniments can make it even more special. So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up this comforting meal, and enjoy every delicious bite together!

Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: 5 Minutes to Comfort

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A comforting dish of chicken thighs cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Place chicken thighs in the crock pot.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crock pot.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Check the chicken for doneness before serving.
6. Serve with rice or vegetables.

Notes

• Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake.
• Adjust honey for desired sweetness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Crock Pot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: crock pot honey garlic chicken thighs