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Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

slow cooker honey garlic chicken breast - featured image

A reliable, tender, and sticky sweet-and-savory chicken dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe balances honey, garlic, and soy sauce for a restaurant-quality meal that is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup pure honey
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 45 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker in a single layer.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  3. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken. Add the 1/4 cup water around the sides of the pot to create steam.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 3 hours. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Remove chicken from the pot and shred or slice it. Return to the pot and toss with the sauce.
  6. Optional: If a thicker glaze is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes until thickened.

Notes

Do not cook frozen chicken in the slow cooker for food safety reasons; thaw overnight in the fridge. If using chicken thighs, they can be substituted for juicier results. For a spicy version, increase red pepper flakes or add jalapeño. Vegetarian option: substitute with firm tofu or seitan. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, honey garlic chicken, easy dinner, meal prep, gluten-free option, comfort food, weeknight dinner