Print

Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe

crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

Tender, fall-apart chicken thighs in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic glaze, made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Sear the chicken (optional but highly recommended): Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.
  3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, tomato paste, and grated ginger until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce over the chicken: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Gently turn the chicken to coat each piece in the sauce.
  5. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours: Cover the slow cooker and cook until the chicken is fork-tender and shreds easily.
  6. Thicken the sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, use tongs to transfer it to a plate. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker with the remaining sauce. Turn the slow cooker to high, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened to a glossy, syrupy consistency.
  7. Shred or serve the chicken whole: Use two forks to shred the chicken, or leave the thighs whole. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and toss to coat in the thickened sauce.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or with your favorite vegetables.

Notes

Searing the chicken adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if short on time. For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot honey garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, honey garlic chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, meal prep

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/easy-crockpot-honey-garlic-chicken-thighs-recipe/