WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Looking for an easy and tasty dish to impress your family? Look no further! Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken delivers sweet, savory flavors with minimal effort. You only need a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker to create a meal that melts in your mouth. I’ll guide you through the steps and share tips for perfect results every time. Get ready to enjoy a warm, delicious meal without the fuss!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of honey, garlic, and ginger creates a deliciously sweet and savory sauce that enhances the chicken.
- Versatile Veggies: Adding broccoli and bell peppers not only boosts the nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to the dish.
- Effortless Cooking: Simply set your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
– Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Optional Ingredients for Variations
If you want to add more flavor, try these options:
– Add a splash of rice vinegar for tang.
– Use different veggies like snap peas or carrots.
– Swap honey for maple syrup for a new twist.
– Add crushed red pepper for heat.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap some ingredients:
– Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option.
– Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian dish.
– Use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic.
– Omit sesame oil if you prefer a lighter flavor.
These ingredients make this dish simple yet delicious. You can mix and match to fit your taste. Enjoy your cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by gathering your ingredients. You need:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
In a bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt. Whisk it well until it blends nicely. This sauce adds great flavor to the chicken.
Next, place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
Slow Cooking Process
Cover your slow cooker. Cook the chicken on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The cooking time may vary based on your slow cooker. I like using the low setting for the best results. The chicken becomes super tender and flavorful this way.
Adding Vegetables and Thickening Sauce
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, it’s time to add some veggies. Add 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 cup of sliced bell peppers to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine everything.
If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. This is your slurry. Add this to the slow cooker in the last 15 minutes. Stir it well to thicken the sauce.
Check that the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can shred the chicken for easier serving. Enjoy your meal over rice or quinoa with the delicious sauce!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Tender Chicken
To ensure your chicken is tender, start with fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. I recommend using boneless and skinless cuts. The slow cooker works best on low heat. Cook your chicken for 4 to 6 hours on low. This method keeps it juicy. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F or 75°C.
Best Practices for Using a Slow Cooker
When using a slow cooker, avoid lifting the lid too often. Each time you open it, heat escapes. This can extend cooking time. Always add liquid to help the chicken cook. The honey and soy sauce mix will keep it moist. Arrange chicken in a single layer. This ensures even cooking.
Suggested Cooking Times Based on Slow Cooker Models
Different slow cooker models may vary in cooking times. For newer models, cooking on high usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. For older models, aim for the full 4 to 6 hours on low. If your slow cooker runs hot, check the chicken sooner. Adjust times based on your specific model for the best results.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the taste of your dish significantly compared to dried or powdered versions.
- Adjust Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste preference or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Variations
Gluten-Free Options
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari tastes very similar but has no wheat. This small swap lets you enjoy the same sweet and savory flavors without worry. Always check labels on your honey and any added sauces to ensure they are gluten-free.
Low-Carb Alternatives
If you’re watching carbs, swap out honey for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol. You can also skip the rice or quinoa. Instead, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or steamed zucchini noodles. These options keep your meal light and tasty, without the extra carbs.
Flavor Enhancements (Spices & Herbs)
To change up the flavors, try adding different spices and herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish. You might also enjoy a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick. Experimenting with flavors keeps the dish exciting every time you make it!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you finish your meal, let the honey garlic chicken cool down. Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge. This helps keep the chicken fresh. I like to use glass containers. They don’t stain and are easy to clean.
Freezing and Reheating Instructions
If you want to keep the chicken longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Just make sure it warms up to 165°F.
Shelf Life of Cooked Chicken
Cooked honey garlic chicken lasts about three to four days in the fridge. If it’s frozen, it can stay good for up to three months. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Keeping track of how long it has been stored helps ensure your food stays safe.
FAQs
What is the Best Way to Use Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken?
The best way to use leftover honey garlic chicken is to create new meals. You can mix it into fried rice or toss it in a salad for lunch. You can also shred the chicken and use it in sandwiches or wraps. This gives you a quick and tasty meal with little effort. Always store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them within three days for the best taste.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just keep in mind to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken, cook it on high for about three to four hours. This allows the chicken to cook through properly. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. You won’t need to thaw the chicken first.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level of the Sauce?
To adjust the sweetness level of the sauce, you can add or reduce honey. If you want it sweeter, add more honey, one tablespoon at a time. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey by one or two tablespoons. You can also add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist. This helps balance the flavors while keeping the dish delicious.
This blog post covered all aspects of making delicious honey garlic chicken. We explored key ingredients, preparation steps, and slow cooking tips. I shared variations for gluten-free and low-carb diets. Lastly, I detailed storage tips and answered key questions.
Now, you are ready to enjoy tasty meals with ease. Use these insights to create your version of this dish. Happy cookin
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
A delicious and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, served with colorful vegetables.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 4 hours hrs
Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 0.5 cup honey
- 0.25 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- to taste sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on your slow cooker settings.
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking and stir well.
Once cooked, check that the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F/75°C). Shred the chicken if desired for easier serving.
Serve the chicken and vegetables over rice or quinoa, drizzled with the remaining sauce.
Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, easy dinner, honey garlic, slow cooker
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?