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Easy Dump-and-Go Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

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A simple and foolproof slow cooker recipe for tender, flavorful honey garlic chicken with minimal prep and maximum taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
  • 1/3 cup honey (113 g)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (60 ml), low-sodium preferred
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (30 g)
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (for thickening)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in the slow cooker in a single layer.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, water, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  5. About 20 minutes before serving, carefully remove the chicken and set aside. Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth and stir into the slow cooker sauce.
  6. Cover and cook on high for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.
  7. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and coat with the thickened sauce. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
  8. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before cooking to help sauce stick better. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain heat. Add cornstarch slurry at the end to thicken sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, honey garlic chicken, dump and go recipe, easy dinner, crockpot chicken, family meal, tender chicken