Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs – Easy & Juicy!

If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that’s full of bold, sweet, and savory flavor, these Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are a must-try! With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep, this slow cooker recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich honey-garlic sauce. It’s the perfect dump-and-go meal for busy days, and you won’t believe how flavorful it is!

Why You’ll Love Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

• This recipe is incredibly easy to make, just dump everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the work! No babysitting or stirring required, which means more time for you to relax or get other things done while dinner cooks itself.

• The flavor is absolutely irresistible. The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a sticky, mouthwatering glaze that clings to every bite of tender chicken.

• It’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful even when reheated, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

• This dish is family-friendly and picky-eater approved! The sweet and savory balance makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, and it pairs well with simple sides like rice or veggies.

• It’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. No need to run to the store, just grab your chicken, mix up the sauce, and you’re good to go!

Ingredients For Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These cook up super tender and juicy in the slow cooker.

• Low-sodium soy sauce – Adds savory umami flavor without making the dish too salty.

• Ketchup – Brings a tangy tomato base with a hint of sweetness.

• Honey – Sweetens the sauce naturally and helps create that sticky glaze.

• Garlic (minced) – Adds bold, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with honey and soy sauce.

• Pinch of salt – Just enough to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors.

• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce into a luscious glaze.

• Water – Mixed with cornstarch to make a smooth slurry.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

• Slow Cooker (4-quart) – The main appliance used to cook the chicken low and slow until tender.

• Mixing Bowl – Used to whisk together the flavorful honey-garlic sauce.

• Measuring Cups – Essential for getting the right sauce ratio.

• Measuring Spoons – For accurately measuring garlic, salt, and cornstarch.

• Whisk or Spoon – To mix the sauce and the cornstarch slurry.

• Instant-Read Thermometer (optional) – Helpful to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for doneness.

How To Make Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

• Place your chicken thighs into the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.

• In a bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, honey, garlic, and a pinch of salt.

• Pour the mixture over the chicken so it’s fully coated.

• Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on Low for 4 hours or on High for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.

• Stir together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry, then add it into the slow cooker.

• Cover and cook on High for another 15 minutes so the sauce thickens into a rich glaze.

• Spoon the thickened sauce over the chicken and serve hot!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy white rice to soak up the sweet and savory sauce.

• Pair with perfectly tender steamed broccoli, snap peas, or green beans for a veggie-packed plate.

• For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or air-fried zucchini noodles.

• Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and color.

Tips For Success

• First, always lay the chicken thighs in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the sauce fully. Overlapping pieces can lead to uneven cooking, with some pieces underdone and others overcooked. If you’re doubling the recipe, it’s better to use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches.
• When mixing the sauce, take a moment to really whisk it well so everything is fully combined. Garlic, honey, soy sauce, and ketchup blend beautifully when stirred properly. This also helps ensure the flavor is evenly distributed over the chicken as it cooks. Don’t skip the pinch of salt—it may seem small, but it really helps balance the sweetness and bring out the savory notes.
• To avoid a watery sauce, don’t be tempted to open the lid during cooking. Every time you open the slow cooker, you release heat and moisture, which slows down cooking and affects the final consistency. Trust the process and keep the lid on until it’s time to thicken the sauce.
• For the perfect glaze, the cornstarch slurry is key. Make sure the cornstarch is completely dissolved in the water before adding it to the slow cooker. Once added, stir it in gently and let it cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes. The sauce will thicken up beautifully into a shiny, sticky glaze.
• Lastly, keep an eye on the cook time. Slow cookers can vary in temperature, so check the internal temperature of your chicken if you’re unsure. Once it hits 165°F, it’s fully cooked and ready for that final step of thickening the sauce.

Variations And Substitutions

• One of the best things about this honey-garlic slow cooker chicken recipe is how versatile it is! Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just want to change things up, there are plenty of easy substitutions and variations that will still give you a delicious result.
• If you don’t have boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can use bone-in thighs or even chicken drumsticks. Just be sure to adjust the cook time slightly, bone-in pieces may take a bit longer to reach 165°F. Chicken breasts can also be used, though they may be a little less juicy than thighs. To avoid dryness, check them early and don’t overcook.
• Want to make this dish gluten-free? Just swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Both options work great and still give you that deep, umami-rich flavor. Be sure to double-check your ketchup, too, as some brands may contain gluten.
• For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce mix. You can also toss in some chopped fresh ginger for a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the honey and garlic. If you love extra garlic flavor, go ahead and double the amount, it’s a very forgiving recipe!
• To add a veggie boost, toss in some sliced bell peppers, carrots, or onions during the last hour of cooking. These vegetables soak up the sauce and make it a one-pot meal with minimal effort. You can also stir in a handful of frozen peas just before serving for added color and freshness.
• Prefer a thicker or extra saucy dish? You can double the sauce ingredients without changing the rest of the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cornstarch slurry slightly so the sauce still thickens well at the end.
• With just a few small tweaks, this simple slow cooker chicken recipe can be customized to fit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand!

Storage and Reheating

• To store leftover Honey-Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs, let the chicken and sauce cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the leftovers even more delicious the next day!
• For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on medium power until heated through, about 2–3 minutes per serving. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of water before reheating to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts can definitely be used in place of thighs. Just keep in mind that breasts tend to be leaner, so they may cook a little faster and could become dry if overcooked. For the best results, check for doneness around the 2-hour mark when cooking on High, and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is it okay to use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

It’s generally not recommended to put frozen chicken directly into a slow cooker due to food safety concerns. The chicken may stay too long in the temperature danger zone before it reaches a safe internal temperature. To stay on the safe side, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before using it in this recipe.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

The cornstarch slurry is what thickens the sauce at the end of cooking. Make sure to fully dissolve the cornstarch in water before adding it. Then stir it into the sauce and cook uncovered on High for about 15 minutes. If you want it even thicker, let it cook for a few more minutes with the lid slightly ajar.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles very well. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold the chicken in a relatively even layer so everything cooks evenly. You may need to add a little extra cook time, especially if your slow cooker is packed full. Be sure to double the sauce ingredients and adjust the cornstarch slurry accordingly.

What can I serve with honey-garlic chicken thighs?

This dish is perfect with a side of rice, which soaks up the sticky, flavorful sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or green beans make a great side, too. For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or a fresh salad. You can even turn it into a rice bowl or wrap it in lettuce leaves for something different!

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The sauce may thicken a bit more after chilling, but that’s easily fixed by adding a splash of water when reheating. This dish also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken the night before. Store them separately or together in a sealed container in the fridge. The next day, just pour everything into the slow cooker and turn it on, super easy!

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