Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are my go-to for this recipe. They stay moist during cooking. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but cooking times will vary slightly.

Honey: Honey gives this dish its sweetness. You could use maple syrup for a different flavor, although it won’t be exactly the same.

Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is a good option to control salt content. If you need a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos!

Vinegar: Rice vinegar is milder, but apple cider vinegar can add a nice tang if that’s what you have on hand.

Spices: Dried oregano and basil enhance the flavor. Feel free to experiment! Thyme or Italian seasoning can also work well in this recipe.

How Do I Get the Perfect Sauce Thickness?

Creating a thick and glossy sauce is a crucial step that can elevate your dish! After cooking the chicken, here’s how to achieve that lovely texture:

• First, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. This will thicken your sauce.
• After transferring the cooking liquid to a saucepan, bring it to a gentle simmer.
• Slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry while continuously whisking. This ensures the sauce thickens evenly without lumps.
• Cook until the sauce reaches your desired thickness, usually about 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it!

Enjoy your delicious sauce drizzled generously over the chicken! The sweet and savory combination truly makes for a satisfying meal.

How to Make Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)

For Thickening and Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This easy recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll cook it in the crockpot for 5 to 6 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, making it perfect for a busy day!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. This little step adds flavor from the very beginning.

2. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat).

3. Add Chicken to the Crockpot:

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the crockpot in a single layer. Ensure there’s enough space for the sauce to coat every piece.

4. Combine and Cook:

Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce mixture over the chicken thighs, making sure they are all well coated. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

5. Transfer Chicken and Make Sauce:

Once cooked, carefully transfer the chicken to a serving dish and cover it to keep warm. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry.

6. Thicken the Sauce:

Pour the liquid from the crockpot into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens to your liking.

7. Serve:

Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if you want a pop of color. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables for a delicious and hearty meal!

Enjoy this flavorful, hands-free crockpot dish filled with sweet and savory honey garlic goodness!

FAQs for Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the thighs first for even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the quick method of placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 1-2 hours.

Can I Substitute the Honey in This Recipe?

Absolutely! If you need a different option, maple syrup works as a sweetener, though it will change the flavor slightly. Brown sugar mixed with water could also suffice if your pantry is low.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken saucy!

What Should I Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs?

These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa. Steamed or roasted vegetables also make a great side for a well-rounded meal!