Name: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 485 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 16 ounces baby red potatoes (halved); 16 ounces baby carrots; 16 ounces green beans (trimmed); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves; 0.5 cup reduced sodium soy sauce; 0.5 cup honey; 0.25 cup ketchup; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried basil; 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Introduction to Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Why choose slow cooker meals for busy weeknights?

Let’s face it: busy weeknights can be overwhelming. Between work, social commitments, and trying to maintain some semblance of a work-life balance, who has time to whip up an elaborate dinner? That’s where slow cooker meals come in, offering delicious convenience without the chaos.

The beauty of slow cooker honey garlic chicken is that you can simply toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work. You’ll return home to a warm, aromatic meal ready to serve, making it an absolute lifesaver for young professionals on the go. Slow cooking not only saves time but also enhances the flavors of your dish, resulting in tender meat and perfectly cooked veggies.

Did you know that slow cooking can actually increase the nutritional value of your meals? Cooking at low temperatures helps retain vitamins, and when combined with wholesome ingredients like chicken and fresh veggies, you get a satisfying and nutritious dish. For more insights on the benefits of slow cooking, check out this article from Healthline.

With just 10 minutes of prep and a hands-off cooking time, making this slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies could become your favorite weeknight ritual. Who knew ease could taste so good?

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Essential ingredients for the dish

For the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken, gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor. Here’s what you'll need:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These are perfect for slow cooking as they stay moist and tender.
16 ounces baby red potatoes: Halved to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
16 ounces baby carrots: Great for that natural sweetness and vibrant color.
16 ounces green beans: Trimmed, and added towards the end for freshness and crunch.

For the delicious sauce, you’ll need:

½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
½ cup honey
¼ cup ketchup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Want to make it gluten-free? Consider using gluten-free soy sauce.

Optional garnishes

To elevate your dish, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a pop of freshness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the chicken. For even more depth, consider serving with a side of steamed rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious sauce!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Creating a tasty meal often feels daunting, but this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies recipe is here to prove that simplicity can lead to deliciousness. So, let’s break it down into easy steps to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly!

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by rounding up your ingredients, so you won't be scrambling mid-cooking. You’ll need:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
16 ounces of baby red potatoes, halved
16 ounces of baby carrots
16 ounces of green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley

For the honey garlic sauce, gather:

½ cup of reduced sodium soy sauce
½ cup of honey
¼ cup of ketchup
2 cloves of minced garlic
1 teaspoon of dried basil
½ teaspoon of dried oregano
¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper

Having everything prepped will streamline your cooking process and keep the flow going.

Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, and dried herbs. The blend creates a sweet and savory profile, perfectly complementing the tender chicken. Whisk until everything is well combined, and your delicious sauce is ready to pour over the other ingredients.

Want to amp up the flavor? Check out Healthline for tips on enhancing marinades and sauces!

Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to put everything together. Place your chicken thighs at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker—this helps them cook evenly. Next, add the halved red potatoes and baby carrots on top. Finally, pour the honey garlic sauce over everything, ensuring all ingredients are nicely coated for maximum flavor.

Set Cooking Time and Temperature

Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you're steadily available during cooking, try basting the chicken every hour for an extra layer of flavor.

Don’t forget to add the green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking. They should stay vibrant and slightly crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the tender chicken and veggies.

Optional Finishing Touches - Broiling the Chicken

For those who appreciate a bit of crispiness, broiling the chicken is a game changer. About 10 minutes before serving, preheat your oven on broil. Carefully transfer the chicken thighs onto a baking sheet, skin side up, and pop them under the broiler for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. This step adds a delightful texture and makes your dish even more irresistible.

With these steps under your belt, your slow cooker honey garlic chicken will be a hit at the dinner table. Get your friends and family ready—dinner is going to be fantastic!

Variations on Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Adding seasonal veggies

Get creative with your slow cooker honey garlic chicken by incorporating seasonal vegetables! When the weather shifts, so can your ingredients. Winter calls for root vegetables like parsnips and sweet potatoes, while summer welcomes vibrant zucchini and bell peppers. Even autumn favorites like Brussels sprouts work beautifully. Feel free to experiment! Just chop them to similar sizes as the baby carrots for even cooking. For more ideas on vegetable combinations, check out this guide to seasonal produce from the USDA.

Making it spicy with extra heat

Do you love a kick? Spice up your slow cooker honey garlic chicken by adding fresh jalapeños, sriracha, or extra crushed red pepper flakes. You could also try a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra zing. Not only does this enhance the flavor profile, but it also warms you up on chilly days! Feel free to adjust the heat level according to your preference, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. If you’re curious, take a look at how different cuisines approach heat in their dishes over at Serious Eats.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Best Practices for Slow Cooking

When preparing slow cooker honey garlic chicken, it's essential to layer your ingredients properly. Start with hard vegetables like potatoes and carrots at the bottom. This ensures everything cooks evenly and prevents burning. Remember to seal your slow cooker tightly — lifting the lid lets the steam escape and can extend cooking time. If you're in a rush, you can opt for the high setting, but the low setting often yields more tender meat.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your delicious slow cooker honey garlic chicken, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags, where they can last up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick and hearty meal!

For more tips on slow cooking, check out The Kitchn's Slow Cooking Guide.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Perfect Side Dishes to Complement the Chicken

When serving your slow cooker honey garlic chicken, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes:

Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: Absorb the scrumptious sauce for a satisfying meal.
Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious option that adds a pop of color and complements the dish well.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for those who want to soak up every last bit of the sauce.

Each of these sides enhances the flavors of your chicken and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Ideas for Meal Prepping with Leftovers

Leftover slow cooker honey garlic chicken is an excellent base for meal prep! Try these ideas:

Wraps: Shred the chicken and combine it with fresh veggies in a tortilla for a tasty lunch.
Salad Bowls: Add cold chicken over a bed of greens with your favorite dressing.
Stir-Fry: Dice the chicken and sauté it with additional veggies for a quick dinner.

By mixing and matching these ideas, you can enjoy varied meals throughout the week without the hassle. Happy cooking!

Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting started with your slow cooker honey garlic chicken is a breeze! The preparation time is just 10 minutes. Simply gather your ingredients, mix the sauce, and toss everything into the slow cooker.

Cooking Time

Once you're set, let your slow cooker work its magic. You’ll need a cooking time of approximately 8 hours on low. If you're in a hurry, a high setting can cook it in about 3-4 hours.

Total Time

Overall, you're looking at a total time of 8 hours and 15 minutes. But remember, most of that is hands-off! Just set it and forget it while you go about your day.

This recipe is perfect for busy young professionals who crave a hearty meal without the hassle. For more insight on slow cooking, check out resources from The Kitchn for additional tips and tricks. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Calories

This delicious slow cooker honey garlic chicken recipe comes in at approximately 400 calories per serving. It’s a satisfying meal that won't leave you feeling weighed down, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Protein

Packed with protein, each serving contains about 30 grams, thanks to the succulent chicken thighs. This high protein content not only helps with muscle repair but also keeps you feeling full longer.

Sodium

To maintain a healthier balance, this recipe uses reduced sodium soy sauce, bringing the sodium content to around 600 milligrams per serving. That’s quite manageable, especially for a flavorful dish!

For more details on sodium intake, consider checking out resources from the American Heart Association.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Can I substitute chicken thighs with other cuts?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide juicy flavor, you can swap them for boneless chicken breasts or even chicken drumsticks. Just remember that breast meat tends to cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness.

How do I adjust cooking time for frozen chicken?

If you're using frozen chicken for your slow cooker honey garlic chicken, it's essential to know that cooking times will increase. Generally, cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for about 5-6 hours. It's crucial that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. For added flavor, consider a side of roasted vegetables or even crusty garlic bread. Feel free to explore options like garlic mashed potatoes or a vibrant stir-fried mix to complete your meal!

For more details on cooking with a slow cooker, check out this guide for expert tips and ideas!

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

In conclusion, this slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking an effortless, delicious meal. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weekdays. Don’t hesitate to give it a shot—you might find yourself making it again and again!