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Why Make This Recipe

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s easily crafted in one pot. With its sweet and savory sauce, chicken breast becomes tender and packed with flavor. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights and family gatherings, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of honey and garlic takes your taste buds on a delightful journey, making it a sure hit with both adults and kids. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on takeout that you can feel good about serving!

How to Make Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
In a separate bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and ground ginger. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.
Pour the honey-garlic mixture directly over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well coated.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and set it aside.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the remaining liquid in the crockpot.
Turn the crockpot to high and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the sauce. Stir until well combined and heated through.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice or quinoa, which soak up the delectable sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas, for a complete and balanced meal.

How to Store Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The texture will remain tender when reheated properly.

Tips to Make Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Use fresh garlic for a more vibrant flavor; it enhances the honey and soy sauce combination.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey, depending on your taste preferences.
Add spice by incorporating red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serve with fresh herbs like cilantro for an added layer of freshness.
Experiment with vegetables; add sliced bell peppers or carrots to the crockpot for extra nutrition.

Make-Ahead & Meal-Prep Guide

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Cook the chicken as directed, then allow it to cool completely. Divide the chicken and sauce into meal-sized portions in airtight containers. Seal tightly and freeze. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then heat in the microwave or on the stove until steaming. The chicken stays tender and flavorful even after freezing!

Variation

Try swapping out the chicken breast for boneless, skinless thighs for a richer flavor. Alternatively, substitute the honey with maple syrup for a different sweet note or add a splash of orange juice for a zesty twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. However, if using frozen, increase cooking time by 1-2 hours and ensure it reaches the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Do I have to use cornstarch to thicken the sauce?
No, you can omit the cornstarch if you prefer a thinner sauce. However, if you want it thicker, you can also use arrowroot powder or adjust the simmer time to reduce it naturally.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot can handle the extra volume. If it’s too full, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through evenly.