Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and effortless meal, Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are an ideal choice. This recipe features succulent chicken thighs that are slow-cooked to perfection, bathed in a sweet and savory glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be served over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs ½ cup soy sauce ½ cup ketchup ⅓ cup honey 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried basil

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6 hours on Low or 3 to 4 hours on High Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes on Low or 3 hours 10 minutes on High Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of a 4-quart slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, ketchup, honey, minced garlic, and dried basil until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Cooking Time

Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 6 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Notes

Serving Suggestion

Serve the chicken over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.

Cook Techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a method that involves cooking food at a low temperature for an extended period. This technique allows flavors to meld together and results in tender, juicy meat.

Whisking

Whisking is a technique used to blend ingredients smoothly. In this recipe, whisking the sauce ingredients together ensures even distribution of flavors.

Layering Ingredients

Layering ingredients in a slow cooker is essential for ensuring even cooking. Placing chicken thighs at the bottom allows them to absorb the sauce while cooking.

Covering

Covering the slow cooker during cooking retains moisture and heat, which is crucial for cooking meats thoroughly and evenly.

Tenderizing

Slow cooking naturally tenderizes meats due to the prolonged heat exposure, breaking down connective tissues and resulting in a softer texture.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but cooking times may vary. Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

What can I serve with Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs recipe offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, resulting in tender chicken that melts in your mouth. It’s an easy and satisfying dish perfect for busy weekdays or gatherings. Simply serve it over rice or with vegetables for a wholesome meal.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey-Garlic Glazed Meatballs

Use the same honey-garlic sauce to coat meatballs, either homemade or store-bought, for a tasty appetizer or main dish.

Honey-Lemon Grilled Chicken Skewers

Marinate chicken in a mixture of honey, lemon juice, and garlic for grilled skewers that are perfect for barbecues.

Slow Cooker Honey-Garlic Beef

Replace chicken with beef in the original recipe for a hearty variation, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Honey-Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu and stir-fry with your favorite vegetables in the honey-garlic sauce.

Honey-Garlic Shrimp

Quickly sauté shrimp with the honey-garlic mixture for a fast and flavorful seafood dish that pairs well with rice.