If you’re searching for a crockpot chicken recipe that’s bursting with sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness, look no further than Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken. This slow-cooked masterpiece combines tender, juicy chicken with a sticky honey-garlic glaze that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or looking for a fuss-free dish for entertaining, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Recipe
There’s something magical about the way a slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll enjoy:
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Set-and-forget convenience – Just load the crockpot in the morning and come home to dinner ready.
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Mouthwatering flavor – A perfect balance of sweet honey, savory soy, and aromatic garlic.
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Tender, fall-apart chicken – Slow cooking ensures juicy results every time.
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Versatility – Serve over rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or with a fresh salad.
If you love easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor, this crockpot chicken is about to become a household favorite.
Ingredients for Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
To create this delicious recipe, you’ll need simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s the complete list:
the Chicken
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2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
the Honey Garlic Sauce
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½ cup (120 ml) honey – Use pure honey for the best flavor.
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¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
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¼ cup (60 ml) chicken broth – Store-bought or homemade.
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
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1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for a nutty depth)
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
Thickening (Optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 tablespoons water
Garnish
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Sesame seeds
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Chopped green onions
Required Kitchen Tools
While the crockpot does most of the work, a few tools will make this recipe even easier:
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Crockpot/Slow Cooker (4–6 quart capacity recommended)
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Small mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Measuring cups & spoons
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Tongs
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Small saucepan (if thickening the sauce)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken:
1: Prepare the Chicken
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Season the chicken – Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper over both sides of the chicken pieces.
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(Optional but recommended) Sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful color.
2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
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Honey
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Soy sauce
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Chicken broth
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Minced garlic
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Rice vinegar
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Sesame oil
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Red pepper flakes (if using)
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Whisk until the honey is fully dissolved and the sauce is well combined.
3: Assemble in the Crockpot
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Place the chicken into the crockpot in a single layer.
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Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken.
4: Slow Cook to Perfection
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Low setting: 5–6 hours
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High setting: 2–3 hours
Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
5: Optional – Thicken the Sauce
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Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
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In a small saucepan, bring the sauce from the crockpot to a gentle simmer.
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Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce.
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Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
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Return chicken to the sauce and coat well.
6: Garnish and Serve
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Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken before serving.
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Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Here are expert tips to take your crockpot chicken to the next level:
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Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness – They stay tender and flavorful during long cooking.
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Don’t overcook – Even in a slow cooker, chicken can dry out if left too long.
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Sear before slow cooking – This step enhances flavor and presentation.
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Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey by 2 tablespoons.
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Make it spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.
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Double the sauce – Perfect if you love extra sauce for drizzling over rice or vegetables.
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Meal prep friendly – This dish reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners later in the week.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
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With Rice – White jasmine rice, brown rice, or fried rice soak up the sauce beautifully.
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With Noodles – Egg noodles, rice noodles, or spaghetti for an Asian-inspired twist.
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With Vegetables – Steamed broccoli, snow peas, or roasted carrots complement the flavors perfectly.
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With Mashed Potatoes – For a hearty comfort-food dinner.
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In Wraps – Shred the chicken and tuck into warm tortillas with crunchy veggies.
Approximate Nutritional Value
(Per serving – based on 6 servings using chicken thighs)
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Calories: 285 kcal
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Protein: 24 g
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Carbohydrates: 23 g
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Sugars: 20 g
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Fat: 9 g
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Saturated Fat: 2 g
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Fiber: 0.3 g
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Sodium: 580 mg
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Why This Crockpot Chicken Recipe is a Keeper
Unlike many recipes that require constant attention, Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken lets you enjoy the day while your slow cooker works its magic. It’s:
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Family-friendly – Kids love the sweet-savory sauce.
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Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, simple ingredients.
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Adaptable – Easily adjusted for spice level, sweetness, or dietary needs.
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Perfect for meal prep – Make ahead and store for up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, but it’s safer to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and best texture.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then do a quick release. Thicken the sauce afterward if desired.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, both cooked and uncooked versions can be frozen. If freezing cooked chicken, store with the sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion – Your New Go-To Crockpot Chicken Dinner
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, high-reward dinner recipe, Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is it. With just a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy a tender, flavor-packed meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Sweet honey, rich garlic, and savory soy combine to create a sauce so good, you’ll want to pour it over everything.
