Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is a delightful dish that brings together the warmth of home-cooked comfort with the convenience of a slow cooker. This meal is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Featuring tender chicken thighs and colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, this recipe stands out for its ease and deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, freeing you up for other activities.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a rich and savory taste that your family will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or use chicken breasts instead of thighs to suit your preferences.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy an entire meal cooked in one pot, which means less cleanup after dinner!
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, resulting in tender meat without constant supervision.
- Large bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients thoroughly before cooking.
- Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are combined well for a smooth sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Vegetables
- 16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved
- 16 ounces baby carrots
- 16 ounces green beans, trimmed
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
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
1. ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
2. ½ cup honey
3. ¼ cup ketchup
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 teaspoon dried basil
6. ½ teaspoon dried oregano
7. ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
8. ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker
Place the following into a 6-quart slow cooker:
1. The 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2. The halved baby red potatoes
3. The baby carrots
Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Gently toss everything to ensure even coverage.
Step 3: Cook It Up!
Cover the slow cooker and choose your cooking setting:
– Cook on Low for 7-8 hours
– Or High for 3-4 hours
Baste the chicken every hour if possible to enhance flavor.
Step 4: Add Green Beans
About 30 minutes before serving, add the trimmed green beans. This keeps them crisp while allowing them to absorb some sauce flavor.
Step 5: Optional Crispy Skin Finish
For crispier chicken skin:
1. Preheat your oven to broil.
2. Transfer the chicken thighs (skin side up) onto a baking sheet.
3. Broil for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Serve your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies hot from the slow cooker. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying this delightful meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Serving Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is simple and can be tailored to suit various tastes. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides or can be enjoyed on its own for a hearty meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Serve with Rice
- White Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the delicious honey garlic sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken.
Include Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the savory sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls make for an inviting addition to the table.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
To ensure your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Timing Matters: Cooking on low for 7-8 hours will yield more tender chicken than cooking on high for 3-4 hours.
- Coat Evenly: Make sure to toss the chicken and veggies in the sauce thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs greatly enhance the taste compared to dried alternatives.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Check doneness periodically, especially if using larger chicken thighs; they should reach 165°F internally.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes according to your liking.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies elevates the meal further. Here are some excellent choices that complement this delightful dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad provides protein and texture, perfect for health enthusiasts.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a favorite and can soak up the delicious sauce.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the meal’s sweetness, making it family-friendly.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth with their earthy flavor profile.
- Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous infused with herbs brings an exotic touch to your dinner plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Skipping the sauce prep: This dish relies on a flavorful sauce. Neglecting to mix ingredients properly can lead to bland chicken and veggies.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: If you add too much food, it may cook unevenly. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken. Always follow the recommended cooking time for tender meat.
- Not basting the chicken: Basting helps infuse flavor. Forgetting this step can result in less tasty chicken.
- Adding delicate vegetables too early: Green beans cook quickly. Add them toward the end of cooking to keep them crisp.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Ensure the meal is completely cooled before sealing the container.
Freezing Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Label with date and contents for easy identification later.
Reheating Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes well with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
Serve this dish with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side salad adds freshness.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well too! Just adjust cooking time slightly since they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.
How do I make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies spicy?
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the heat according to your taste preference.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! This dish features lean protein and plenty of veggies, making it a balanced meal option that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies offers a delightful mix of flavors that can easily become a family favorite. Its versatility allows you to customize with different vegetables or spices based on what you have at home. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy dinner without stress!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is the ultimate comfort meal that combines tender chicken thighs with vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich honey garlic sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, requiring minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work, leaving you free to enjoy your day. With its sweet and savory notes, this dish is sure to please the entire family, making it a go-to favorite for gatherings and cozy dinners alike.
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved
- 16 ounces baby carrots
- 16 ounces green beans, trimmed
- 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
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Place chicken thighs and halved baby red potatoes and carrots into a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour the sauce over and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours. Baste the chicken every hour if possible.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the trimmed green beans to keep them crisp.
- For crispy skin (optional), broil chicken on a baking sheet for 3-4 minutes until golden brown before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours (on Low)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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