Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy and flavorful Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe for Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a lifesaver for those hectic days when you don't have time to cook. Simply dump the ingredients in the crockpot, and let it do all the work for you!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and savory flavor combination that's irresistible
- Minimal prep time with maximum flavor
- Perfectly tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
When life gets busy, the last thing you want to think about is dinner. This Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken takes the stress out of meal prep. With just a few minutes of hands-on time, you can have a delicious meal cooking away while you tackle other tasks. Simply mix the sauce, add the chicken, and let the crockpot work its magic. It's a hassle-free way to ensure your family enjoys a wholesome dinner without the fuss.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can throw everything into the crockpot in the morning and come home to a mouthwatering meal ready to serve. There's no need for complicated steps or lengthy prep time, making it ideal for those hectic weekdays. Plus, the sweet and savory flavors of the honey garlic sauce will have everyone asking for seconds!
Flavor That Delivers
This Honey Garlic Chicken boasts a unique flavor profile that combines sweetness from the honey and umami from the soy sauce, creating a delightful balance that tantalizes the taste buds. The addition of minced garlic adds depth and richness, while the sesame oil provides a hint of nuttiness. Together, these ingredients create a sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Using chicken thighs in this recipe ensures a juicy, flavorful outcome. Thighs are more forgiving than breasts when it comes to cooking, remaining moist and tender even after several hours in the crockpot. The long cooking time allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious sauce, resulting in a meal that is both satisfying and comforting.
Customizing Your Dish
While this recipe is fantastic as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the crockpot for a complete meal in one pot. These veggies will steam beautifully in the flavorful sauce and add extra nutrition to your dinner.
If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat, or substitute the rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. The versatility of this dish means you can create variations that keep your weeknight dinners exciting and fresh!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your preference and dietary needs.
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Add Chicken to Crockpot
Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and season with salt and pepper.
Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks in the crockpot, then serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Enjoy your meal with rice or steamed vegetables!
Tips for Perfect Chicken
To achieve the best results with your Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They cook evenly and stay moist, ensuring you have tender meat that's easy to shred. If you prefer chicken breasts, keep in mind that they may require a slightly shorter cooking time to prevent dryness.
Always season your meat with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding the sauce. This simple step enhances the overall flavor and makes a significant difference in the final dish. Remember to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
This Honey Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you can pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter option that balances out the flavors.
For a fun twist, consider using the shredded chicken in tacos or wraps. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of flavor that will elevate your meal to new heights. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to impress!
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? No problem! This Honey Garlic Chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and moisture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it from drying out.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it a perfect meal prep option that ensures you always have a quick, delicious dinner on hand!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to cook them for an additional hour.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
→ Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
This easy and flavorful Dump-and-Go Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Natalie Warren
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Shred the chicken with two forks in the crockpot, then serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 30g