Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious dish with minimal effort. The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can set it and forget it in your crockpot, allowing you to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss of active cooking time.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 330
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to make a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow-cooking process makes the chicken thighs incredibly tender and juicy, while the honey garlic sauce adds a delightful sweetness. It’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping, allowing you to have leftovers that taste just as good reheated. Plus, the hands-off cooking style makes it a great fit for those with busy schedules.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Creating this delicious dish is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a wonderful meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavorful sauce that enhances the chicken’s taste beautifully.
Step 2: Mixing
Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot. Pour the honey garlic mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cooking
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender, ready to soak in all that delicious sauce.
Step 4: Finishing
Once the chicken is done, serve it hot with the honey garlic sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped green onions for a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic finish.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Serve these chicken thighs with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the sauce. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to create a balanced meal. For a family gathering or potluck, set up a buffet-style table so guests can help themselves to the juicy chicken and sides.
How to Store Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it even tastier!
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the sauce for a few hours before cooking if you have the time.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for added richness, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup for a different twist on sweetness, or use tamari if you want a gluten-free option.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken when it’s finished cooking and simmer the sauce on the stovetop until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Delicious Variations
- Teriyaki Style: Add some sesame oil and sesame seeds to give it a teriyaki flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Boost: Add sliced bell peppers or broccoli into the crockpot for extra veggies in your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may dry out if cooked for too long, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can this recipe be doubled? Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough, and you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce? Coconut aminos can be a great soy sauce alternative, especially for a gluten-free version.
- How can I make this dish healthier? Use low-sodium soy sauce, reduce the honey, or skip it completely for a savory dish.
- Can I add other ingredients like vegetables? Yes! Adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can enhance the dish and make it more nutritious.
Conclusion
Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs provide not only a delicious and comforting meal but also a stress-free cooking experience. With minimal preparation and the rich flavors of honey and garlic, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, hearty meal without the hassle!
Print
Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 370 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious meal with minimal effort, featuring chicken thighs cooked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until cooked through and tender.
- Serve hot with the sauce drizzled on top and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
For more flavor, marinate chicken thighs in the sauce before cooking. Use bone-in thighs for added richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
