Ingredients
Ingredients
2–3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
(thighs for juicy texture, breasts for leaner option)½ cup honey
(for that perfect sweet glaze)¼ cup soy sauce
(use low-sodium if preferred)¼ cup ketchup or hoisin sauce
(ketchup for a mild flavor, hoisin for a deeper taste)4 cloves garlic, minced
(or 1½ teaspoons garlic powder as a shortcut)1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano (optional)
(for an herby touch)½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
(if you like it a little spicy)1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Vegetables (optional additions):
1–2 bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1–2 carrots, thinly sliced
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
Trim any extra fat from the chicken thighs or breasts. If you like, you can sear the chicken in a hot pan for 2–3 minutes per side to add extra flavor, but this step is optional.Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup (or hoisin sauce), minced garlic, dried basil or oregano (if using), and red pepper flakes (if you want spice).Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it, making sure the pieces are well coated. You can also add optional vegetables like sliced bell peppers or carrots now.Slow Cook
Cook on low for 6–7 hours for the most tender result, or
Cook on high for 3–4 hours if you’re short on time.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
About 30 minutes before it’s done, stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water if you want the sauce thicker. Leave the lid slightly ajar to let the sauce reduce.Shred or Serve Whole
Once done, you can leave the chicken whole or shred it directly in the slow cooker to soak up more of that delicious sauce.Garnish and Serve
Top with sesame seeds, green onions, or fresh herbs. Serve over rice, noodles, or with steamed veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 650 mg (using regular soy sauce; lower with low-sodium)
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg