Honey Garlic Chicken Crockpot
Hola, friend! There’s something magical about slow cooker dinners that fill your home with warmth and the irresistible smell of comfort.
This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Recipe is one of those dishes that reminds me of cozy family meals, the kind that make everyone gather around the table before dinner’s even ready. The sweet and savory honey garlic sauce seeps into tender chicken thighs and hearty veggies, creating a flavorful, wholesome meal that practically cooks itself.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding the family on a busy night, this garlic chicken recipe is your new go-to comfort favorite.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 7 hours (on low) |
| Total Time: | 7 hours 15 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 to 6 |
| Serving Size: | 1 portion |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Cuisine Type: | American |
| Best Season to Serve: | Fall or Winter |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless comfort food: Just load up your slow cooker, set it, and let it do all the work for you.
- Perfectly balanced flavor: The honey garlic sauce blends sweetness, umami, and a touch of spice in every bite.
- Family-friendly dinner: Even picky eaters will love the tender chicken and sweet carrots.
- Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find and budget-friendly, making this recipe perfect for any night of the week.
- Healthy and hearty: Loaded with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that nourishes without feeling heavy.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Recipe
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
Make this easy Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies recipe for a comforting, flavorful dinner the whole family will love. Tender chicken thighs, baby potatoes, carrots, and green beans cook slowly in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce until perfectly delicious.
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved
- 16 ounces baby carrots
- 16 ounces green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
- For the sauce:
- 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ketchup, garlic, basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. You can make this sauce the night before and store it in the fridge.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the halved baby potatoes and carrots on top.
3. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and veggies, coating everything well. Stir gently for even flavor distribution.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. If possible, baste the chicken with sauce occasionally for extra flavor.
5. Add the green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they stay tender but not mushy.
6. (Optional) For crispier skin, transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 4 minutes until golden.
7. Transfer chicken and vegetables to a serving platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Arrange chicken skin-side up for even cooking and better browning.
Do not overcrowd the slow cooker, or the sauce may not coat evenly.
Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to thin the sauce.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or fresh parsley for a restaurant-style finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (on low)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 17
- Sodium: 860
- Fat: 17
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 36
- Cholesterol: 140
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved
- 16 ounces baby carrots
- 16 ounces green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
For the sauce:
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | Use bone-in for flavor, or boneless if you prefer easier serving. |
| Soy sauce | Choose reduced sodium to keep the flavor balanced. |
| Honey | Use pure honey for natural sweetness and gloss. |
| Ketchup | Adds tang and depth to the sauce, balancing the honey. |
| Garlic | Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce its signature kick. |
| Basil & oregano | Dried herbs work well, but you can use fresh for stronger aroma. |
| Crushed red pepper | Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference. |
| Green beans | Add them at the end so they stay crisp-tender, not soggy. |
| Potatoes | Baby reds hold shape better during slow cooking. |
| Parsley | Adds freshness and color at the very end. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. (You can prep this sauce the night before and store it in the fridge to save time.)
- Load the slow cooker: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add halved baby potatoes and carrots on top. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over everything, making sure the chicken and veggies are well coated. Stir lightly for even coverage.
- Set and cook: Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. For even richer flavor, baste the chicken with the sauce every hour if you’re home, but it will still turn out delicious if left alone.
- Add the green beans: About 30 minutes before cooking time is done, stir in the green beans so they become tender but not mushy.
- Optional broil for crispy skin: For golden, crisp chicken skin, place cooked thighs on a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly caramelized.
- Garnish and serve: Transfer chicken and vegetables to a serving dish and drizzle with extra sauce from the slow cooker. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Helpful Tips
- Always arrange chicken skin-side up for even browning.
- Do not overcrowd your slow cooker, or the sauce may not coat evenly.
- If the sauce seems thin, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to help it thicken.
- Add a splash of chicken broth if your veggies absorb too much liquid while cooking.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Sear for flavor: For extra depth, sear your chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Use a slow cooker liner: It saves cleanup time and keeps the sauce from sticking.
- Double the sauce: If you love extra honey garlic flavor, make a bit more and store the rest in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Fresh herbs at the end: Add parsley only when serving to keep its flavor vibrant and green.
Recipe Variations
- Boneless chicken thighs: Swap for boneless thighs to make serving easier, just reduce cooking time slightly.
- Chicken breasts: Use bone-in or boneless breasts for a leaner version of honey garlic chicken.
- Add extra veggies: Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for more color and texture.
- Spicy version: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prep everything the night before. Just place all ingredients (except green beans) in a slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, set your cooker and start. For freezing, assemble all ingredients in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze flat. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting honey garlic chicken with steamed rice or buttered noodles to soak up the sauce. For presentation, arrange chicken and veggies on a large platter, drizzle sauce over the top, and garnish with sesame seeds or fresh parsley. It’s family-style comfort at its best.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold sparkling lemonade. For sides, try roasted broccoli, garlic bread, or a light garden salad to balance the sweet-savory flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warm. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before warming to preserve texture and flavor.
If you’re craving something light and full of Italian flavor, you’ve got to try my 5-Minute Bruschetta Dip. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh tomato goodness, making it the perfect appetizer to serve before your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, bake it in a covered dish at 375°F for about 45 minutes, then uncover for 10 minutes to brown.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I make it spicy?
Of course. Add extra crushed red pepper or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! It stores beautifully and reheats well, making it perfect for weekday lunches.
What can I use instead of ketchup?
Try tomato paste with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a similar balance.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just use a larger slow cooker or cook in two batches to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 portion |
|---|---|
| Calories: | 420 kcal |
| Protein: | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 28 g |
| Fat: | 17 g |
| Fiber: | 4 g |
| Sugar: | 17 g |
| Sodium: | 860 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Recipe is comfort food made easy. Sweet, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, it’s the perfect family dinner for busy days. Give it a try this week, and you’ll see why it’s one of my favorite garlic chicken recipes to keep on rotation.
