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Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

These Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a set-it-and-forget-it weeknight dinner that delivers tender, juicy chicken in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy nights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 45 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat if desired, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, tomato paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Place chicken thighs in the bottom of a slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
  4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is fork-tender and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, carefully remove chicken to a plate using tongs. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker with the remaining sauce. Turn heat to high and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens to a glossy, syrupy consistency.
  6. Optional: Preheat broiler. Place chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with some thickened sauce, and broil for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  7. Return chicken to slow cooker or serving dish. Pour remaining sauce over top. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or vegetables.

Notes

For best texture, cook on low. Do not skip the cornstarch slurry—it creates the glossy glaze. Watch the broil step closely to prevent burning. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, honey garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, easy weeknight dinner, sticky chicken