There’s something profoundly comforting about the steady, warm scent of honey and garlic gently wafting through your home. As I sat down after an exhausting day, I couldn’t resist the allure of a hearty meal that seemed to promise both nourishment and ease. That’s when the idea struck me: why not let my slow cooker do all the heavy lifting? Enter my deliciously simple Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies.
This dish combines juicy, bone-in chicken thighs with vibrant baby red potatoes, sweet carrots, and crisp green beans, all bathed in a sticky, savory sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and umami. What truly makes this recipe a winner, aside from its incredible flavor, is how effortlessly it fits into the chaos of a busy schedule. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it while the magic happens. Imagine coming home to a meal that doesn’t just fill your belly, but warms your soul. Perfect for family dinners or impressing friends, this recipe is your ticket to homemade comfort without the hassle. Let’s dive in!
Why is Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies a Must-Try?
Simplicity: Just 15 minutes of prep is all it takes to set this flavorful dish in motion.
Deliciously Balanced Flavor: The sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic create a mouthwatering combination that pleases everyone at the table.
Versatile: This dish pairs beautifully with various side salads or grains, giving you flexibility to suit your pantry options.
Impressive Yet Easy: Perfect for busy nights, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels gourmet without requiring culinary expertise.
Nourishing and Wholesome: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that the whole family will appreciate.
By the way, if you’re looking for a fun appetizer before diving into this meal, don’t miss my guide on delicious slow cooker appetizers.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Ingredients
• Ready to create a tantalizing dish? Let’s gather everything you need!
For the Chicken
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – These thighs make the dish juicy and flavorful as they cook low and slow.
For the Vegetables
- 16 ounces baby red potatoes – Their butteriness adds a wonderful texture alongside the chicken.
- 16 ounces baby carrots – Sweet and colorful, these carrots enhance the dish’s visual appeal and taste.
- 16 ounces green beans – Added towards the end, they retain their crispness, providing a delightful contrast.
For the Sauce
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce – This umami-rich ingredient adds depth to the flavor profile of your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies.
- ½ cup honey – Infuses the dish with a lovely sweetness that balances savory notes perfectly.
- ¼ cup ketchup – This sneaky ingredient contributes both sweetness and acidity to round out the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic introduces an aromatic warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – A touch of this herb complements the flavors beautifully with its fragrant essence.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Enhances the savory taste, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – A hint of spice that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the honey.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Just the right amount to add a kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves – A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only beautifies the dish but adds a burst of freshness.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to making a comforting meal that you and your family will love!
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
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Whisk Together: In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce, ½ cup honey, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper. This will create a sweet-savory sauce that envelops your chicken and veggies beautifully.
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 16 ounces halved baby red potatoes, and 16 ounces baby carrots into a 6-quart slow cooker. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for optimal cooking.
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Pour the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Gently toss everything to coat it evenly, ensuring each piece is covered in that divine honey garlic goodness.
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Set to Cook: Cover your slow cooker and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours. For the best results, baste the chicken every hour if you can—this will keep it moist and flavorful.
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Add the Green Beans: About 30 minutes before cooking is done, add 16 ounces of trimmed green beans to the pot. This allows them to cook through while still retaining their crunch and vibrant color.
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Crisp the Chicken Skin (Optional): For crispier chicken skin, preheat your oven to broil. Transfer the chicken thighs, skin side up, to a baking sheet and broil for 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp. This step adds a delightful texture.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve the chicken alongside the vegetables, spooning the sauce over everything. Don’t forget to garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and freshness!
Optional: Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance by marinating them in the sauce mixture (soy sauce, honey, ketchup, garlic, and spices) in the refrigerator. This not only enhances flavor but also saves time on busy nights. On the day you plan to cook, simply place the marinated chicken and veggies in the slow cooker, toss them to coat with any remaining sauce, and set your cooker to Low for 7-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours. Adding the green beans about 30 minutes before serving will keep them crisp and vibrant. Rest assured, you’ll enjoy the same delicious result just as if you made it fresh that day!
Helpful Tricks for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
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Even Cooking: Cut potatoes and carrots into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly alongside the chicken, enhancing the harmony of flavors in your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies.
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Moist Chicken: Basting the chicken every hour keeps it juicy and flavorful. Remember to do this, especially if you’re cooking on High!
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Customize Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the green beans for your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to match your family’s taste preferences.
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Crispy Skin: If you prefer crispy skin, broiling the chicken for a few minutes after slow cooking is key. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
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Storage Tip: Leftovers can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your tastes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free soy sauce for reduced sodium soy sauce to keep this dish friendly for gluten sensitivities.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an added layer of heat and excitement.
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Vegetarian Swap: Replace the chicken with hearty, cubed tofu; use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a flavorful marinade.
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Citrus Burst: Add the zest and juice of one orange to the sauce mixture for a fresh and tangy twist that’s truly refreshing.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs are wonderful—try adding chopped thyme or rosemary along with the basil and oregano for a lovely depth of flavor.
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Sweet Heat: For a unique taste, budge the honey ratio and replace half with maple syrup and a pinch more chili flakes for warmth.
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Texture Twist: Experiment with different root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for an intriguing texture and earthy flavor contrast.
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Savory Option: Use a packet of onion soup mix mixed into the sauce for an easy, savory depth that’s sure to impress your dinner guests!
With these variations, you’ll never tire of the same old recipe—let your imagination run wild!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies fresh and ready for reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label them for quick identification later.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to retain moisture.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures even warming and preserves the flavors.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
Complement your delightful dish with a variety of sides that echo its flavors and textures, turning dinner into a feast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes absorbs the honey garlic sauce beautifully, creating a comforting blend with the chicken.
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Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice tossed in garlic butter provides a neutral canvas that balances the bold flavors of the dish, making each bite harmonize perfectly.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Adding a slight crunch, these sprouts, roasted to perfection, bring a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast, brightening each mouthful of the rich chicken.
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Savory Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs wonderfully, soaking up the sauce while enhancing the overall comforting experience of the meal.
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Roasted Garlic Green Beans: Intensifying the veggie experience, roasted green beans add a hint of smokiness that beautifully echoes the dish’s existing flavors.
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Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit salad introduces a refreshing acidity, brightening the palate between hearty bites of chicken and veggies.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: To wash it all down, a refreshing glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lime keeps your dining experience light and invigorating.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note, with warm, gooey cookies that perfectly contrast the savory dinner and delight the taste buds!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken thighs for this recipe?
Look for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with plump and firm flesh. They should be a pinkish color with no dark spots or an off-putting smell. Freshness is key! If you’re buying them pre-packaged, opt for ones with minimal air exposure to avoid freezer burn.
How should I store leftovers of the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
Absolutely! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, microwave them or heat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze this dish for later use?
Definitely! After cooking, let the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies cool completely. Divide them into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags with the date for easy organization.
What do I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
Very! To help the chicken cook more evenly, make sure that all ingredients are arranged in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. If there’s too much stacking, the heat may not circulate well. Also, baste the chicken every hour, which helps to evenly distribute the juices and encourage even cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
The ingredients in the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies are generally safe, but do check for allergies—especially with soy sauce, as it contains gluten. For those watching their sodium intake, you can use low-sodium soy sauce, which we recommend in the recipe.
Can I substitute any ingredients to make this dish lighter?
Certainly! If you want a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts. For a lower-sugar alternative, try a sugar-free honey substitute like agave syrup or omit the ketchup entirely. Adjusting ingredient quantities can also help you fit your dietary preferences while still enjoying this delicious meal.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground black pepper.
- Place chicken thighs, halved baby red potatoes, and baby carrots into the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, tossing gently to coat.
- Cover and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours, basting every hour if possible.
- About 30 minutes before cooking is done, add trimmed green beans.
- For crispy skin, broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes after slow cooking.
- Serve the chicken and vegetables, garnished with parsley.