In the realm of culinary simplicity, where weeknight dinners reign supreme, the Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken emerges as a true champion. Picture this: tender chicken thighs, bathed in a sticky-sweet honey garlic sauce, mingling with juicy vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection. It's a symphony of flavors that will have your family clamoring for seconds, and it couldn't be easier to make.
Forget the endless chopping and stirring - this recipe is all about letting your slow cooker do the work. Just toss the ingredients in, set it, and forget it. This dish is a dream come true for busy weeknights, when you need a delicious meal on the table without the hassle.
Why This Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe Reigns Supreme
This Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is more than just a meal - it's an experience. Here's why:
- Easy Prep: You'll spend a mere 15 minutes getting everything prepped before letting the slow cooker work its magic.
- Flavorful Sauce: The honey garlic sauce is the star of the show, with a sweet and savory taste that coats everything in a delicious glaze.
- Tender Chicken: Crock pot cooking ensures juicy, tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Picky Eaters: Even the most discerning palates will be won over by this dish.
- Versatile: Add your favorite vegetables or customize the sauce to suit your taste buds.
Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken: A Table of Delights
| Ingredient | Function |
|---|---|
| Honey Garlic Sauce | Provides the sweet and savory base for the dish |
| Chicken Thighs | Tender and juicy protein |
| Potatoes, Carrots, Onions | Add depth of flavor and texture |
| Green Beans | Provide a fresh, vibrant touch |
| Cornstarch Slurry | Thicken the sauce for an extra indulgent touch |
Recipe: Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients:
- Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce, low sodium
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Crock Pot Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 pound baby red potatoes
- 1 pound carrots, peeled
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- fresh parsley, chopped, for serving (optional)
- salt and pepper to taste
- Cornstarch Slurry (Optional):
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 3 tsp water
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, oregano and ketchup.
- Add the chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots and onions to a 4-6 quart slow cooker.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce mixture evenly on top.
- Cover the slow cooker and seal the lid. Cook on a LOW setting for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-3 1/2 hours.
- About 20 minutes before serving, add the green beans to the slow cooker and optional cornstarch slurry to the sauce.
- Re-seal the lid and cook for 15-20 minutes more until the green beans are tender and the sauce is starting to thicken.
- Remove the chicken and vegetables to serving plates using a slotted spoon. Optional: Broil the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes to brown the skin.
- Drizzle sauce on top of chicken and vegetables. Garnish with optional minced parsley.
Pro Tips:
- Use quality soy sauce: A good quality soy sauce, like Kikkoman or San-J, will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
- Check doneness early: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker. Check the chicken for doneness at the early end of the time range.
- Separate the fat: For a healthier option, pour the sauce into a fat separator before adding cornstarch. Separate out the fat and use only the remaining liquid for the thickening step.
- Store leftovers properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave on medium power. Do not freeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
While you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, they may disintegrate during cooking. Bone-in chicken thighs will hold their shape better and provide a more satisfying texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini to your Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken.
What if I don't have cornstarch?
If you don't have cornstarch, you can try thickening the sauce with a tablespoon or two of flour. Just be sure to whisk it into the sauce before adding it to the slow cooker.
Post a Comment