Description
The Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic with the succulence of slow-cooked chicken thighs to create a mouth-watering dish that is both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. The caramelized edges achieved by the brief broiling add a perfect touch of crispiness that complements the tender, flavorful meat.
Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this recipe not only fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also offers a comforting, hearty meal that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to make dinner special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Chicken:
6 large chicken thighs, skinless and bone-in
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
Rub:
1 teaspoon paprika (mild or smoked)
½ teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon coarse salt
¼ teaspoon cracked pepper
Honey Garlic Butter Sauce:
½ cup honey
½ cup unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 pinch salt
½ teaspoon cracked pepper
Additional:
¼ cup water or chicken broth
2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel. Combine ½ tablespoon of olive oil with the rub ingredients. Season the chicken, ensuring the mixture is well rubbed into each thigh.
Optional Sear: Heat the remaining oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2 minutes on each side to enhance flavor.
Transfer the seared chicken to a 6-qt slow cooker bowl.
Melt butter in the same pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in remaining sauce ingredients and bring to a simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each thigh is evenly coated. Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours, basting halfway through.
Transfer chicken to a serving dish and tent with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Pour the juices from the slow cooker into a pot and bring to a simmer. Combine water or broth with cornstarch to make a slurry and whisk into the sauce. Simmer until thickened to a syrup-like consistency.
For a thicker sauce, repeat thickening with additional cornstarch if desired.
Broil the chicken on a lined baking sheet, basting with sauce, for 1-2 minutes each side to char the edges. Serve sliced and drizzled with the thickened sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 495 Kcal