Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: A Comforting Delight

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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly balances smokiness, sweetness, and savory goodness. This tender chicken melts in your mouth and is ideal for those busy days when you need a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and a cooking method that allows you to set it and forget it, this recipe promises to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

This easy honey garlic slow cooker dish offers a variety of benefits:

Flavorful: The combination of honey and garlic brings a unique depth of flavor.
Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights, just set it and let the slow cooker do the work.
Versatile: Use it in various meals like tacos, rice bowls, or sandwiches.
Healthy: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a lean protein option.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice level to your preference.
Family-friendly: A dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

This recipe is part of the Dinner category and caters to a Gluten-Free diet, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite such as Sweet Baby Ray’s, Trader Joe’s, mild, spicy, garlicky, etc.)
¼ cup honey
1 tablespoon minced garlic (or to taste, about 4-5 cloves, finely minced)
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Green onions (sliced into thin rounds; optional for garnishing)
Sesame seeds (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Step-by-Step

Step 1: Spray the insert of your 6-quart or 7-quart slow cooker with cooking spray, although it’s optional.
Step 2: Add the barbecue sauce, honey, and garlic, and stir to combine.
Step 3: Remove approximately 1/2 cup of the sauce, cover, and place in the refrigerator for later use.
Step 4: Add the chicken and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce.
Step 5: Arrange the chicken in as even of a flat layer as possible.
Step 6: Cover and slow cook on HIGH for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or on LOW for about 5 to 6 hours, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F.
Step 7: If desired, shred the chicken after cooking by placing it on a cutting board and using two forks.
Step 8: Add the reserved 1/2 cup sauce mixture to the shredded chicken and toss to coat.
Step 9: Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 10: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, with veggies, in enchiladas, tortillas, or sliders.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

Keep these in mind:

Check the chicken early as cooking times vary by slow cooker.
Use barbecue sauce with honey for added sweetness.
For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on the stove after cooking.
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

There are many ways to enjoy this delectable dish:

Serve it over steamed rice for a comforting bowl.
Pair it with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Use it in tacos or sliders for a fun twist on dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This recipe is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Honey Garlic?

The secret lies in using the right barbecue sauce, ensuring it complements the honey and garlic without overpowering them. Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect match.

Can I make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator. Just plug it in the next day and let it cook!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic?

To avoid overcooking, check the chicken’s temperature regularly. Each slow cooker heats differently, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Variations of Slow Cooker Honey Garlic You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Honey Garlic Pork in Slow Cooker: Substitute chicken with pork for a delicious twist.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Meatballs: Use meatballs instead of chicken for a fun appetizer or main dish.
Honey Garlic Ribs Slow Cooker: Apply the same sauce recipe to ribs for a finger-licking good meal.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Shrimp: Perfect for a quick dinner that’s full of flavor.