This slow cooker honey garlic chicken is a comforting, family-friendly meal that delivers tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes like you spent hours cooking, even though the slow cooker does almost all the work for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a reliable, flavorful dinner without standing over the stove. The chicken cooks gently until it becomes fall-apart tender, soaking up a balanced sauce made from simple pantry ingredients. It’s versatile, pairs well with many sides, and works beautifully for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Cooking time is 3 to 4 hours on low.
Total time is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.

Variations

• Add a mild kick by stirring in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken, then simmer the sauce in a saucepan with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water until thickened.
• Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Add grated fresh ginger to the sauce for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless and skinless chicken thighs work very well and will result in a slightly richer taste.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

No, browning is not necessary, as the slow cooker will fully cook and tenderize the chicken.

Can I make this recipe less sweet?

You can reduce the honey to 1/3 cup if you prefer a milder sweetness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be portioned easily for several meals.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook it on high for about 2 hours, but low heat gives the most tender results.

What sides go well with honey garlic chicken?

Rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or flatbread all pair nicely with this dish.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

It’s best to cook vegetables separately to avoid them becoming too soft.

How do I know the chicken is done?

The chicken is ready when it shreds easily with a fork and is fully cooked through.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, doubling the sauce works well if you like extra for drizzling over sides.

Can this recipe be frozen after cooking?

Yes, it freezes well and maintains its flavor and texture when reheated properly.

Conclusion

Slow cooker honey garlic chicken is a dependable, flavorful recipe that fits effortlessly into busy schedules. With tender chicken, a glossy sauce, and endless serving options, it’s a meal you can come back to again and again for stress-free, satisfying dinners.

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