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Easy Crockpot Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crockpot sticky honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

Tender, sticky honey garlic chicken thighs made effortlessly in the slow cooker. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers a perfectly caramelized glaze with simple pantry ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 68 thighs)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Place the thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
  3. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken thighs. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
  4. Optional: About halfway through cooking, flip each chicken thigh using tongs for even coating.
  5. Check for doneness: Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with a fork.
  6. Optional: Transfer cooked chicken to a plate. Pour remaining sauce into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until thickened into a syrupy glaze.
  7. Return chicken to the slow cooker or place on a serving platter. Pour thickened glaze over the top and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Low-sodium soy sauce is essential to prevent the dish from being too salty. The sauce thickens naturally as it reduces; avoid adding extra liquid. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, honey garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, sticky chicken, easy weeknight dinner