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Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Best Set and Forget Recipe)

crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

This Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is the ultimate set-and-forget dinner. With just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients, you get incredibly tender, sticky-sweet-savory chicken that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 68 thighs)
  • ½ cup honey
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until fully combined.
  2. Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of your crockpot.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece gets a little coating.
  4. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
  5. Using tongs, carefully transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a plate or cutting board. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
  6. Turn the crockpot to HIGH. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour the slurry into the remaining liquid in the crockpot and stir well. Let it cook, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze.
  7. Optional: For extra caramelization, place the cooked chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with a little thickened sauce, and broil on HIGH for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Return the chicken to the crockpot or a serving dish. Pour the thickened glaze over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice, quinoa, or with your favorite vegetables.

Notes

For best texture, cook on LOW. Use low-sodium soy sauce to avoid excessive saltiness. The sauce will look thin initially but thickens after adding the cornstarch slurry. Optional broiling step adds a lovely caramelized crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, honey garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, easy dinner, set and forget recipe