Welcome to my cozy corner of the kitchen! I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you: crockpot honey chicken. Now, if you’re anything like me, you cherish the comfort of a home-cooked meal but sometimes find the hustle and bustle of life gets in the way. That’s where the magic of a crockpot comes in! You simply toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it while you go about your day. How easy is that?

This recipe is a wonderful blend of sweet and savory flavors, and it really does cook to perfection while you relax. I love the way the smell of honey and garlic fills the house, making it feel warm and inviting. Plus, it’s super versatile! You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for family or just for yourself, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this easy crockpot honey chicken, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation. So, let’s get started!

Ingredients List

• 2 pounds chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Prepare Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First things first, let’s get that chicken ready! Start by taking your 2 pounds of chicken thighs and placing them directly into the crockpot. If you have time, you might want to pat them dry with a paper towel to help the sauce stick better later on. This step is simple but makes a difference! You don’t need to fuss over trimming; just toss them in as is, and we’ll work our magic with the sauce.

Mixing the Sauce

Now for the fun part—making that delicious sauce! In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of ketchup. Don’t worry if you don’t have ketchup on hand; you can substitute it with tomato paste if you need to! Next, add in the 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Give it all a good stir until everything is nicely mixed. The sweet and savory aroma will have you dreaming of dinner already!

Cooking Process

Once your sauce is ready, pour it right over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover it up, and here’s where you can choose your adventure: cook it on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. I usually go for low, as it allows the flavors to really mingle and develop. Just make sure to check on it occasionally if you can! You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork. Oh, and remember, safety first! Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Finishing Touches

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time for those final touches. Carefully remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken our sauce. Stir the slurry into the sauce left in the crockpot and let it cook on high for an additional 30 minutes. Then, return the chicken to the pot, coating it well in that lovely sauce. Give it a gentle stir and let it soak up all that flavor before serving!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this crockpot honey chicken! While I always encourage enjoying food without guilt, it’s nice to know what we’re working with, right? Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose to use. For instance, if you swap out chicken thighs for breasts, the fat content will drop a bit. And if you’re mindful of sodium, you can opt for a low-sodium soy sauce. No matter how you tweak it, this recipe remains a delightful and comforting dish to enjoy!

Tips for Success

To make sure your crockpot honey chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way that can really help. First, don’t skip the step of patting the chicken dry. It may seem minor, but it really helps the sauce cling beautifully to the meat, giving you that rich flavor you’re after!

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. They’re leaner but still delicious! And for those with dietary restrictions, maple syrup is a lovely substitute for honey if you want something a little different or if you’re avoiding sugar.

Now, for storage: if you have leftovers (which I hope you do, because they’re amazing!), let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Trust me, it’s just as good the next day! So, go ahead and give these tips a try—you’ll be a crockpot honey chicken pro in no time!

Variations

The beauty of crockpot honey chicken lies in its versatility! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can easily make it your own. Here are some delightful variations to consider that will keep things fresh and exciting in your kitchen:

• Different Meats: While chicken thighs are my go-to, you can switch things up! Try using chicken breasts for a leaner option, or even pork tenderloin for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with boneless skinless chicken legs for an affordable, tasty alternative.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. It’ll give your honey chicken a delightful spicy twist that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the honey.
• Veggie Boost: For an extra dose of nutrition, toss in some chopped vegetables before cooking. Bell peppers, carrots, or even broccoli florets work wonderfully. They’ll soak up that amazing sauce while adding color and crunch to your dish!
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavors significantly. Toss in a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary before cooking for a fragrant touch. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color.
• Sweet and Sour Twist: For a sweet and sour version, replace the soy sauce with an equal amount of apple cider vinegar and add a bit more honey to balance the tang. It’s a fun variation that’ll surprise your taste buds!

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and personal taste! Don’t hesitate to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your day for other activities.
• Deep, Rich Flavors: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a beautifully balanced sweet and savory dish that’s sure to impress.
• Comforting Meal: It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your home with a delightful aroma, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Customizable: This recipe is so versatile! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs, whether swapping meats or adding veggies.
• Great for Leftovers: It’s just as delicious the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or quick lunches.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this delicious crockpot honey chicken, let’s talk about what to serve it with! The right sides can elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the flavors beautifully:

• Steamed Rice: A classic choice! White or brown rice soaks up that sweet and savory sauce perfectly. You can even jazz it up with a hint of butter or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
• Quinoa: For a healthier option, try serving the chicken over fluffy quinoa. It’s packed with protein and adds a lovely nutty flavor that works well with the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers roasted to perfection makes for a colorful and nutritious side. The slight caramelization adds a nice depth to your meal!
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the honey chicken. Consider adding ingredients like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for extra creaminess.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a lovely contrast to the tender chicken. You can go for a classic creamy version or a tangy vinegar-based slaw, depending on your preference.
• Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, serve some warm garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for mopping up any extra sauce!

As for beverages, a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs nicely with the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can be delightful as well. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious crockpot honey chicken, let’s talk about how to store those lovely leftovers! Proper storage is key to keeping your meal fresh and tasty. First, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.

If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply move it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. This gentle thawing allows the flavors to stay intact.

When it comes time to reheat, you’ve got a few options! For quick and easy reheating, the microwave works just fine. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps retain moisture), and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Be sure to stir it occasionally for even heating.

If you prefer to use the stovetop, simply add the chicken to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it juicy. Stir occasionally until heated through, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out. No matter how you choose to reheat, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Enjoy those tasty leftovers! They’re just as comforting the next day, I promise!

Crockpot Honey Chicken: 5 Comforting Steps to Deliciousness

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple and comforting crockpot honey chicken recipe that cooks to perfection while you go about your day.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

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Instructions

1. Place chicken thighs in the crockpot.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Once cooked, remove chicken and set aside.
6. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry.
7. Add the slurry to the sauce in the crockpot and stir well.
8. Return chicken to the crockpot, cover, and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.
9. Serve warm over rice or vegetables.

Notes

• Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
• Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Crockpot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: crockpot honey chicken, easy chicken recipes, slow cooker meals