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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

A tender, slow-cooked chicken dish melded with sweet honey, savory garlic, and a hint of soy sauce, perfect for family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts) Thighs stay juicier.
  • 1/2 cup honey Use runny, floral honey for the best aroma.
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce Swap tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup Adds tang and body.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Double up for garlic lovers.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar Brightens the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil Optional, for a toasty note.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Chinese five-spice Thyme is subtle; five-spice makes it festive.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Fresh-cracked if you have it.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water For thickening at the end.
  • to taste green onions and sesame seeds for garnish Optional.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Lightly season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Arrange the thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer for even cooking.
Sauce Mixing
  1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and thyme until glossy and fragrant.
  2. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, spooning it so each piece is hugged by the mixture.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
  2. Once cooked through, remove chicken to a platter and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
Thickening the Sauce
  1. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce and cook for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serving
  1. Return the chicken to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
  2. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Pairs well with jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or mashed potatoes. Excellent for meal prep and reheats beautifully.