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Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, olive oil, and oregano. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
3. Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let the sauce cook on high for about 10–15 minutes until thickened. Return the chicken to the slow cooker to coat in the sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Chicken: Thighs are naturally juicier and more forgiving in the slow cooker, but breasts work just as well for a leaner option.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure the chicken stays moist and tender.
- Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour for a built-in side dish.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of honey and garlic is a classic for a reason—it’s both comforting and crave-worthy. The soy sauce and ketchup add depth, while the slow cooker ensures the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors. The result is a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but only requires minimal effort.
Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add ½–1 tsp of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Crispy Finish: After slow cooking, place the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Rice: Fluffy white or jasmine rice soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- With Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked lo mein or egg noodles.
- Side Dishes: Pair with roasted broccoli, green beans, or a simple salad.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is proof that comfort food can be easy to make without compromising on taste. This recipe is ideal for hectic schedules or when you want to treat your loved ones to a hearty, flavorful meal. Once you’ve tried it, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation!
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