When it comes to comfort food, there’s something about the combination of honey and garlic that feels so irresistible. The balance of sweet and savory flavors is simply perfect.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is one of those recipes I keep going back to because it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re having a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or even entertaining guests, this dish never disappoints.

I’ve had my fair share of busy days, where I needed something simple yet flavorful for dinner, and this honey garlic chicken always comes through.

It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with many sides, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, so you can just set it and forget it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare. Just throw everything in, and let it do the work while you focus on other things.

Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic creates a delectable sauce that coats the chicken perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy, falling apart with just a fork.
Versatile: You can serve this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or even a side of roasted vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe makes great leftovers, and you can easily store it for the next day’s meal. It also freezes well, making it perfect for batch cooking.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
¼ cup honey

¼ cup soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker. You don’t need to sear them beforehand; the slow cooker will work its magic. Simply season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and dried oregano. If you like a little heat, you can add the crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. This sauce is sweet, savory, and just the right amount of tangy, making it perfect for the chicken to soak in.
Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
Once the sauce is well mixed, pour it evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is covered with the sauce to ensure it’s well-infused with all those delicious flavors.

Cook on Low
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is juicy, tender, and infused with the flavorful sauce.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside. To thicken the sauce, whisk together cornstarch and water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Shred and Serve
Shred the chicken using two forks, and then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it into the sauce. Let it sit for a few more minutes so the chicken absorbs the thickened sauce. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or with your favorite side dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can throw in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or even carrots along with the chicken to add more flavor and texture to the dish. The vegetables will absorb the sauce, making them incredibly tasty.
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or even a small chopped chili pepper to the sauce. You can also drizzle a little sriracha sauce over the chicken once it’s served for an extra kick.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They remain extra juicy and flavorful after slow cooking, and the honey garlic sauce complements them perfectly.

Honey Garlic Chicken with Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the slow cooker for a tropical twist. The sweetness from the pineapple enhances the honey garlic sauce, and the acidity of the pineapple balances the richness of the chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, you’ll need to cook it for a longer period, about 6-7 hours on low, to ensure it cooks through properly. It’s always best to check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just be sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken and sauce. You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

3. Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” for 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. Once done, release the pressure, and proceed with the thickening step.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

How to Serve

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

Over Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over steamed white or brown rice for a filling and comforting meal.
Mashed Potatoes: The sweet and savory sauce works wonderfully with mashed potatoes.
Noodles: Serve the chicken over egg noodles or pasta for a more Italian-inspired dish.

Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a healthy and flavorful side.