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Honey Garlic Chicken

This easy honey garlic chicken recipe is a comforting meal made in the slow cooker with tender chicken thighs and a sweet and savory sauce using pantry staples.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 189 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts Use bone-in thighs for tenderness or lean breasts if preferred.

For the Sauce

  • 4 cloves fresh garlic Crushed by hand for better flavor.
  • ¾ cup soy sauce Tamari or coconut aminos are gluten-free alternatives.
  • cup honey Can substitute with maple syrup for dietary needs.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Thickens the sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons chili paste Optional for heat.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Adds tang.
  • to taste black pepper Season to preference.

For Thickening the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Mix with 2 tbsp of water before adding to the sauce.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Set up your slow cooker. Place the chicken thighs or breasts at the bottom.
  • Sprinkle the minced garlic over the meat.
  • Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and stir gently to coat.

Cooking

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
  • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  • When done, remove chicken to a plate and shred with forks.
  • Keep warm.
  • Strain cooking liquid into a bowl and mix cornstarch slurry into the liquid.
  • Simmer on HIGH for 15 minutes until thickened.
  • Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and toss with sauce.
  • Cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.

Serving

  • Add sesame seeds and scallions before serving over rice.
  • Adjust honey if the sauce is too sharp.

Notes

Leftover honey garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Keyword chicken recipe, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Honey Garlic Chicken, Slow Cooker Chicken