Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
A comforting dish featuring juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich honey garlic sauce, easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Base
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey Maple syrup can be a substitute for a vegan option.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free.
- 1/4 cup ketchup Consider low-sugar or homemade for a healthier twist.
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger Ground ginger can be used but fresh is preferred.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
To Serve
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in an even layer across the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until fully combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 4 hours or on Low for 6 to 7 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and transfer it to a plate. Shred using two forks, or leave the breasts whole according to preference.
- In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry. Pour the slurry into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker and stir to incorporate.
- Return the shredded or whole chicken to the slow cooker. Stir to coat evenly, cover, and cook on High for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Serving
- Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions.
Notes
For added freshness, drizzle with sesame oil before serving. Consider garnishing with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds. Let chicken rest before shredding to retain juices.