Let your kitchen fill with the mouthwatering aroma of slow simmering honey garlic chicken that’s fall-apart tender and rich with flavor. This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a long day. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, then the slow cooker does the rest, turning simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner everyone will ask for again.

The balance of sweet honey, savory garlic, and a splash of soy sauce makes the sauce irresistible. It clings beautifully to the chicken, whether you shred it over rice or serve it whole with a spoonful of sauce. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just want something easy and delicious for weeknights, this recipe delivers all the comfort with none of the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

You’ll love this recipe for how effortlessly it comes together. The slow cooker brings out the tenderness in chicken thighs while infusing every bite with sweet and savory flavor. It’s ideal for busy days when you still want to serve a meal that feels home-cooked. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can pair it with anything from rice to noodles or even tuck it into wraps or sandwiches.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are preferred because they stay juicy and tender, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure not to overcook them—breasts tend to dry out more easily than thighs in the slow cooker. If you’re using breasts, check for doneness around the 3.5-hour mark on low.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you get a dish that tastes like it took hours to make (well, technically it did, but you didn’t have to do the work!).

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and flavorful even after hours of cooking.
Honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a rich, sticky sauce.
Soy sauce: Brings that salty, umami depth that balances the sweetness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
Ketchup: Adds tang and thickness to the sauce.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens up the sauce.
Cornstarch: For thickening the sauce at the end.
Water: To help dissolve the cornstarch for the slurry.
Sesame seeds & green onions (optional): For garnish and a little extra texture and freshness.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, and rice vinegar. This is your flavor base, and it’s packed with richness.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Slow Cooker

Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker in an even layer. Pour the sauce over the top, making sure all the chicken is coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. If you’re using high, aim for 2.5 to 3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Remove the chicken and set aside. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook on high for about 10 to 15 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the slow cooker, stirring to coat it in the thickened sauce. Serve hot, topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if using.

How to Serve and Store This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve it hot over jasmine or brown rice, or ladle it over noodles for a cozy bowl. It also works wonderfully in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or meal prep bowls with roasted vegetables.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken?

Jasmine Rice

A fragrant, fluffy base that soaks up every drop of sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Crisp-tender and vibrant, broccoli adds a nice contrast to the rich chicken.

Garlic Butter Noodles

Simple, buttery noodles make a comforting pairing.

Stir-Fried Veggies

Think bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for crunch and color.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their caramelized sweetness complements the honey garlic glaze.

Sesame Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing with a hint of tang.

Egg Rolls

For a takeout-style dinner night at home.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this comforting chicken dish, you might enjoy these other chicken recipes:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl with lemony rice and creamy sauce.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet for a tangy, creamy one-pan wonder.
White Chicken Enchilada Casserole loaded with cheesy comfort.
Chicken Biscuit Casserole for a cozy, southern-style dinner.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for something delightfully rich and crowd-pleasing.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with breasts or thighs? Did you add a little spice or serve it over noodles?

I love seeing your creations and sharing tips to make every dish just right.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinner and slow cooker favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next easy go-to meal!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is proof that an easy dinner can still feel special. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you get something saucy, savory, and satisfyingly sweet. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is one to save and come back to again and again.