Every now and then, life gives us a moment of culinary serendipity, and I found mine while digging through my slow cooker. The results? A delightful Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken that has quickly become a staple in my household. Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of tender chicken bathing in a luscious sauce, ready to be devoured.
This dish is a perfect fusion of sweet honey and tangy mustard, making it a family-friendly favorite that even the pickiest of eaters can’t resist. Not only is it easy to prepare—requiring just a few moments of your time for prep—but it also offers versatility, allowing you to adapt it to your family’s tastes. And the best part? You can set it and forget it; this slow cooker recipe does all the work while you tackle your day. If you’re craving a comforting, hands-off meal, join me in making this savory delight that will redefine your weeknight dinners!
Why is Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken a must-try?
Irresistible Aroma: The moment you walk through the door, the comforting scent of honey mustard envelops you, making it hard to resist.
Effortless Prep: With just a few simple ingredients, you’re ready to kick back and let the slow cooker do its magic, giving you more time to enjoy your evening.
Family-Friendly Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters can’t say no to this satisfying meal, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
Flavorful Versatility: Feel free to swap out ingredients or add veggies, ensuring everyone at the table gets what they love.
Time-Saving Delight: This set-it-and-forget-it recipe fits seamlessly into busy weeknights, ensuring delicious and wholesome home-cooked meals are never out of reach.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs or Breasts (2-2.5 lbs) – Use thighs for more flavor and tenderness, or opt for breasts if you prefer a leaner choice.
For the Sauce
• Honey (½ cup) – Provides sweetness and helps with caramelization; for a twist, substitute with maple syrup.
• Dijon Mustard (¼ cup) – Adds a sharp tang; if you need a milder flavor, yellow mustard works too.
• Yellow Mustard (¼ cup) – Offers a familiar mustard taste; adjust to your preference.
• Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Infuses umami and saltiness; consider using low-sodium for a healthier alternative.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tablespoons) – Balances the sauce with a tangy touch; white vinegar or lemon juice can also substitute.
• Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced) – Intensifies flavor depth; use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
• Onion (1 medium, sliced) – Adds sweetness and a flavor base; shallots can be milder if preferred.
For Seasoning
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Ideal for searing the chicken; can be swapped with other cooking oils like avocado oil.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Provides mild heat and vibrant color; try smoked paprika for a unique twist.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Enhances onion flavor, but can be left out for a milder dish.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds convenience and flavor, increase for more garlic punch.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Season to taste; white pepper offers a milder option.
Optional Thickening
• Cornstarch Slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water) – Use this for a thicker sauce, if desired, but feel free to skip it if not needed.
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures the meat absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
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Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This adds a lovely texture and depth of flavor.
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Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste!
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Assemble in Slow Cooker: Layer the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the chicken on top and pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over it, ensuring all pieces are coated.
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Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
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Shred the Chicken (Optional): If you’d like a saucier dish, shred the chicken using two forks after cooking. This also helps it absorb the flavorful sauce even more.
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Thicken the Sauce (Optional): For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce, and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve this savory delight over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite veggies.
Optional: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
Customize this savory dish to elevate your dinner experience with exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Swap honey with agave syrup for a dairy-free version that retains the sweetness while offering a unique flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for a heartier, one-pot meal that adds extra nutrition.
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Mustard Medley: Experiment with spicy brown mustard or whole grain mustard for an added depth of flavor and a delightful texture.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to cater to gluten-free diets while keeping the umami flavor intact.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before cooking; they’ll infuse the chicken with aromatic notes that enhance every bite.
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Citrus Zest: Zest an orange or lemon into the sauce—a bright twist that complements the honey and mustard beautifully.
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Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for those who crave a bit of heat in their meal.
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Oven Option: If you don’t have a slow cooker, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes until cooked through for a comforting weekend dish.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s cooled before transferring to prevent condensation inside the container.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, occasionally stirring, or in the microwave until piping hot. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Sauce Storage: If you’ve thickened the sauce with cornstarch, it may lose some texture after freezing. To remedy this, re-thicken it while reheating by adding a bit more cornstarch slurry.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
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Chicken Selection: Choose chicken thighs for maximum tenderness and flavor; breasts are leaner but can dry out quicker in the slow cooker.
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Searing Benefits: Searing the chicken before slow cooking enhances flavor and adds a lovely browned texture. Don’t skip this step unless you’re short on time!
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Sauce Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the mustard levels according to your preference; whole grain mustard adds a delightful crunch and richness.
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Doneness Check: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is your best friend!
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Meal Prep Friendly: This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken makes for fantastic leftovers. Store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken are a lifesaver for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply whisk together the sauce ingredients, coat the chicken, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sliced onions can also be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just place the marinated chicken and onions in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. This way, you’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken?
Imagine crafting a comforting dinner experience that dances between sweet and tangy, elevating your mealtime to new heights.
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Fluffy Rice: The perfect base for soaking up that luscious honey mustard sauce while offering a soft texture that harmonizes with the chicken.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes lend a rich, velvety contrast to the savory chicken, enhancing each bite with a warm, inviting feel.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts adds vibrant color and a touch of earthy sweetness, balancing the dish beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Imagine tearing into warm, crusty bread while it’s still buttered—great for mopping up leftover sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition that everyone will love.
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Quinoa Salad: The nutty flavor and chewy texture of quinoa provide a nutrient-packed accompaniment, and you can toss in fresh veggies to make it even more colorful.
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Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken, making each meal feel well-rounded.
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Crisp Green Salad: A salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite and a hint of acidity that brightens the dish, perfect for balancing richness.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: This refreshing drink is light and invigorating, cleansing your palate while effortlessly complementing the meal’s sweet and savory notes.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using chicken thighs, as they provide more flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work just fine, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out quickly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Make sure it has cooled down before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage.
Can I freeze this dish, and if so, how?
Very! You can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to the container, ensuring there’s minimal air exposure. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thin, you can easily thicken it during reheating. Just mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce in the skillet, and allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes until thickened to your liking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you might want to use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake. Always double-check ingredients for potential allergens, especially mustard, which can cause reactions in some individuals. If you’re decorating with garnishes, make sure they don’t contain allergens your guests may have.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
For optimal flavor and texture, reheat your Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s bubbling hot. You can also use the microwave; just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures your meal remains delicious and safe to eat!
Succulent Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken for Fuss-Free Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Layer sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker, place the chicken on top, and pour the sauce evenly over it.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- If desired, shred the chicken using two forks after cooking.
- For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, stir it into the sauce, and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions and serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or veggies.