Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Slow cookers are a kitchen savior when it comes to whipping up delicious meals with minimal effort. This Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a perfect example. With a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including keto and low-carb.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium option available)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the chicken to the slow cooker, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
5. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring to coat it evenly with the thickened sauce.
7. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high, allowing the sauce to thicken further.
8. Serve the honey garlic chicken over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrition.
• For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey. Conversely, for a less sweet dish, reduce the honey or substitute with a low-carb sweetener.
• Customize the level of spice by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or omitting them altogether.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Replace honey with a sugar-free alternative such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content.
• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to lower the sodium content and eliminate soy.
• Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or noodles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? A: Yes, you can use either boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker? A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in additional cornstarch slurry or allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for a longer period in the slow cooker until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can combine the sauce ingredients and prep the chicken in the slow cooker insert the night before. Store it covered in the refrigerator overnight, then simply place it in the slow cooker and cook according to the recipe instructions when ready.

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a winner for the whole family. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish guilt-free. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!