Description
This easy crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to make a meal that feels special. It’s simple, forgiving, and downright delicious, with a sweet and savory sauce that caramelizes perfectly.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken thighs in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and set them aside on a plate.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour the slurry into the slow cooker with the remaining sauce. Turn the slow cooker to high, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- Return the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and toss them in the thickened sauce. Let them heat through for about 5 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over steamed rice, quinoa, or vegetables. Spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Don’t skip the sear—it adds essential flavor. Use chicken thighs for best results; breasts can dry out. Thicken the sauce at the end for a glossy finish. For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a fresh chili. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 c
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28
- Sodium: 680
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Protein: 32
Keywords: crockpot honey garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, honey garlic chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner