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A crockpot full of honey garlic chicken, ready to serve

Game-Changer Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

This easy crockpot honey garlic chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight meal. The sweet and savory sauce makes it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6-8 thighs)
  • 1/2 cup Honey
  • 1/2 cup Soy sauce low sodium recommended
  • 4-6 cloves Garlic freshly minced
  • 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons Water or chicken broth (for slurry)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil/cooking oil (for searing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnishes
  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In your slow cooker insert, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until combined.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  3. Transfer seared chicken to the slow cooker, nestling into the honey garlic sauce, ensuring it is mostly submerged.
  4. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and cooked through (165°F/74°C).
  5. Remove chicken from slow cooker and set aside. Whisk cornstarch and water/broth in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the hot sauce in the slow cooker, whisking constantly.
  6. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
  7. Shred or chop the chicken, or leave it whole. Return chicken to the thickened sauce, tossing gently to coat. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a portion of the sauce for at least 30 minutes before searing. Adjust the amount of garlic and chili flakes to your spice preference. This chicken is delicious served over rice or with steamed vegetables.