These Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are sweet, savory, sticky, and incredibly delicious! Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a rich homemade honey garlic sauce made with honey, soy sauce, fresh garlic, and brown sugar. The chicken becomes juicy and flavorful while soaking up all that delicious glossy sauce. Finished with sesame seeds and fresh green onions, this easy crockpot chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner!
Ingredients
- 2½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ⅓ cup honey
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer inside a 5–6 quart slow cooker.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is coated.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Thicken the Sauce: Carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a plate. Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch with cold water, then whisk it into the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thick, glossy, and beautifully sticky.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the chicken to the slow cooker or place it on a serving platter. Spoon the thickened honey garlic sauce generously over each piece.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions over the chicken. Serve warm with rice or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Boneless or bone-in chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Chicken breasts can also be substituted, but avoid overcooking.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
- For extra garlic flavor, add another clove or two.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
4–5 hours on LOW
Total Time
4 hours 10 minutes – 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings
6 servings