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Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

A simple and delicious slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup honey (60 ml)
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (80 ml), low sodium preferred
  • 45 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (5 ml), optional but recommended
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (60 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (for cornstarch slurry)

Instructions

  1. Pat 3 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chicken broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the crockpot and pour the sauce evenly over the top.
  4. Set the crockpot to low and cook for 5-6 hours. Flip the chicken around the 3-hour mark if possible.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth and stir into the crockpot. Turn heat to high and cook for 20-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more soy sauce if needed. Serve hot with extra sauce spooned over the chicken.

Notes

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results. Flip chicken halfway through cooking for even sauce distribution. Use cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce at the end. For crispier skin, broil chicken for 3-4 minutes after slow cooking. Can substitute boneless thighs but reduce cooking time to 4-5 hours on low. For gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, easy weeknight dinner, honey garlic sauce, comfort food