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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken served with rice and vegetables

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

A simple, hands-off dinner featuring tender chicken in a sticky, savory honey-garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless chicken thighs or breasts Use for tender results and easy shredding.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Season to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Add for mild heat.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup honey Provides sweetness and caramelizes the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce Adds savory depth.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup Gives body and tang.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced For aroma and flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated Adds warm notes to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar Balances sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for a mild kick.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Used to thicken the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup water Mix with cornstarch for thickening.
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds Optional garnish.
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped For garnish before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. Whisk honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a bowl until smooth.
  3. Place the chicken in a single layer in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Turn pieces to coat.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and easily pulls apart.
  2. Optional: To thicken the sauce, remove chicken and pour sauce into a saucepan. Combine cornstarch with water, whisk into the sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Return chicken to the slow cooker or pour thickened sauce over it. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Use consistent chicken pieces for even cooking. Don’t lift the lid while cooking to retain heat. Adjust sweetness to taste. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F for safety.