A simple and flavorful slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy days when I want a home-cooked meal without all the work. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, I can create a comforting dish that’s great served over rice or veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this slow cooker honey garlic chicken because it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The sweet and salty combo from the honey and soy sauce, paired with the richness of garlic, makes each bite irresistible. It’s also versatile—whether I serve it shredded over rice, with steamed veggies, or even in wraps, it works for weeknights or meal prep. Plus, cleanup is minimal, and the slow cooker does most of the work.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1/4 cup ketchup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
directions
I start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Then, I whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, dried basil, and black pepper in a bowl.
I pour this mixture over the chicken.
I cover and cook it on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
If I want the sauce thicker, I remove the chicken, stir in the cornstarch mixture, and cook on high for another 15–20 minutes.
Once thickened, I return the chicken to the sauce and serve it hot, often over rice or steamed vegetables.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high Total Time: Around 4 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 10 minutes (high)
Variations
I like switching it up depending on my mood or what I have on hand:
Spicy twist: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Shredded version: I shred the chicken after cooking for a saucier, pulled-chicken style dish.
Garnishes: I sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
Sweeter or saltier: I sometimes adjust the honey or soy sauce amounts to get the flavor just how I want it.
Veggie boost: I toss in some bell peppers or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for a built-in side.
storage/reheating
To store, I let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—I portion it into freezer bags and keep it frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, I microwave individual servings for about 1–2 minutes or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. If it thickens too much in the fridge, I just add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?
I usually serve it over white or brown rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas are great sides, too.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, I sometimes use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. The cooking time stays about the same.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
I use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the sauce after removing the chicken. Then I cook it on high for about 15–20 minutes until thickened.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. I freeze it in portions and it reheats really well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, I can cook it in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F for about 30–40 minutes or simmer it gently on the stovetop, covered, for around 25–30 minutes until the chicken is done.
Conclusion
This slow cooker honey garlic chicken is one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly flexible for weeknight dinners or leftovers. Whether I keep it classic or mix in some variations, it never fails to satisfy.
