This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and sticky delight! With tender chicken and colorful veggies, it’s a one-pot meal that practically cooks itself.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a meal that smells amazing while it gently bubbles away? I like to serve it over rice for a tasty finish that’ll make your taste buds dance! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: These are my favorite for slow cooking, as they turn out super juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or even bone-in thighs—just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Honey: This gives the dish its signature sweetness. If you’re looking for substitutes, maple syrup or agave nectar can work wonderfully, too!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is great to control saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Vegetables: The carrots and potatoes add substance, while the broccoli and green beans are a great way to sneak in more greens. Feel free to swap any of these for veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini based on what you have at home.
How Do I Achieve the Best Texture for My Chicken?
To get that perfect tender chicken, start by seasoning it well before placing it in the slow cooker. The long cooking time breaks down the fibers, making it juicy! Here are a few tips:
- Layer heartier vegetables (like potatoes and carrots) at the bottom, as they need more cooking time.
- Keep the lid closed during cooking. Each time you open it, heat escapes, which can affect cooking time.
- Be careful not to overcook. Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly succulent chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken with Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium golden potatoes, cut into chunks
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Thickening:
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After that, your slow cooker will do the heavy lifting! You’ll need to cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. Then just 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, you’ll finish up with the veggies. It’s super simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the chunks of carrots and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. These will serve as a hearty base for your chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper. This will enhance the chicken’s flavor. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the veggies in the slow cooker.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This delicious sauce is what makes the dish special!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Make sure it’s all well-coated!
5. Cook Time:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Just relax and let the flavors meld together!
6. Add Final Veggies:
About 30 minutes before serving, gently add the broccoli florets and green beans on top. They’ll steam nicely and stay crisp!
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker kitchen to thicken the sauce for that perfect texture.
8. Final Cook:
Replace the lid and cook on high for another 25-30 minutes. This gives the sauce time to thicken up nicely!
9. Tasting Time:
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It’s always good to double-check!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the honey garlic chicken and veggies over warm cooked rice, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy this delicious and wholesome meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, tender, and wholesome Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken with Veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily than thighs. If using breasts, check for doneness at about 3 hours on high or 5 hours on low.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much upon cooling, you can add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the honey garlic chicken and veggies! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up in the microwave or stovetop.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, or even cauliflower. Just make sure to consider their cooking times; add more delicate veggies like spinach or peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
