Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of tender chicken infused with honey, garlic, and savory spices in this sensational Slow Cooker One Pot Honey Garlic Chicken recipe. With just a handful of simple ingredients and the convenience of your slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its irresistible aroma and delightful taste. Get ready to elevate your culinary experience and delight your taste buds with every savory bite!
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, dried oregano, and chopped parsley. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker, around the chicken thighs, to create extra moisture and flavor.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, you can thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the honey garlic sauce over the chicken and garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delectable flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce.
- Enhance with Vegetables: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the chicken for added flavor and texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the honey with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Use reduced-sodium soy sauce to minimize carb intake.
- Low-Carb Twist: Reduce the amount of honey or omit it entirely to lower the carb content of the dish. You can also use tomato paste instead of ketchup for a lower-sugar alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred. However, keep in mind that bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the honey garlic sauce and sear the chicken thighs ahead of time. Store the sauce and chicken separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Absolutely! Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this honey garlic chicken? A: This honey garlic chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Get ready to savor the savory goodness of Slow Cooker One Pot Honey Garlic Chicken, a deliciously comforting dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its tender chicken thighs, aromatic garlic, and sweet honey sauce, this recipe delivers a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy-to-make dish is guaranteed to impress. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to enjoy the irresistible allure of honey garlic chicken like never before!