Experience the ultimate comfort of tender chicken thighs infused with sweet honey and zesty garlic in this simple slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, these chicken thighs are bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (about 6–8) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions and sesame seeds
Instructions
To begin, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This step ensures that the flavors from the honey-garlic sauce mingle perfectly with the chicken.
Next, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and vinegar in a small bowl. Place the chicken thighs in your slow cooker, then pour the sauce mixture over the top, making sure each piece is coated.
Set the slow cooker to low and let the chicken thighs simmer for about 4–5 hours (or cook on high for 2–3 hours). When they are nearly done, stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce. Cook for another 15–20 minutes on high until the sauce thickens into a glaze.
Finally, remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and spoon that glossy, fragrant sauce on top. If you like a bit of color, you could pop them under the broiler for a couple of minutes to lightly caramelize the edges. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and serve warm.
These Sweet & Savory Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a real treat for anyone seeking a comforting and fuss-free meal. The tender chicken falls right off the bone, and the honey-garlic sauce offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors that please both picky eaters and adventurous palates. For a healthier variation, try using low-sugar honey or opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt levels in check. You can also swap in chicken breasts if you prefer white meat, but the thighs tend to stay more succulent. Serve alongside rice, vegetables, or even a hearty side salad. Whichever way you dish it up, this recipe reliably turns out satisfying results with minimal effort.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
