Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma while delivering incredible flavor to your dinner table. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats tender chicken thighs, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family and friends. Plus, using a crock pot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Why Make This Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The crock pot takes care of the cooking process, making it ideal for anyone who wants a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss. The tender chicken thighs absorb the sweet and savory marinade, resulting in a dish that is not only flavorful but also moist and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is a surefire winner.
How to Make Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
Making Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs is as simple as mixing ingredients and allowing your slow cooker to do the work! You start by combining the honey, garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard, which creates a tantalizing marinade. The chicken thighs soak in this mixture as they slow cook, becoming incredibly tender. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, with minimal hands-on time required.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the crock pot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve the chicken over fluffy cooked rice and enjoy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce over rice):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 22g
How to Serve Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
Serve this dish warm over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. You can also sprinkle some sliced green onions or sesame seeds on top for an extra burst of flavor and presentation. This dish is also fantastic for meal prep—make a larger batch and enjoy throughout the week!
How to Store Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
- Ensure to use skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs for the most flavor and moisture.
- You can substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave if you prefer a different sweetness.
- For an added kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinade for some heat.
- If you like a thicker sauce, you can thicken it by simmering on the stove with a bit of cornstarch mixed with water after cooking.
Delicious Variations
- Asian Style: Add a splash of rice vinegar and some chopped scallions to the marinade for an Asian twist.
- Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
- Honey Garlic Meatballs: Swap out chicken thighs for prepared meatballs for a different, yet equally delicious dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily. To prevent this, cook them just until they’re done.
- Can I cook this recipe on a stovetop? While this recipe is designed for a crock pot, you can cook it on medium heat in a skillet with a lid, making sure to cook until the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Is there a way to make it healthier? You can reduce the honey or use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake. Adding more vegetables to your serving can also boost the nutritional value.
Conclusion
Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs is a truly delightful dish, showcasing a perfect blend of sweetness and savory notes that will impress everyone at your dinner table. Its ease of preparation makes it a top choice for busy cooks or anyone looking to enjoy a great meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and let the delicious smells guide your way to a wonderful dinner experience. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and adaptations, as I’d love to hear how you make it your own!
Garlic Honey Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in the crock pot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve the chicken over fluffy cooked rice and enjoy.