Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Chicken thighs: Bone-in and skinless, these provide a rich flavor and tender texture.

Honey: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory elements.

Low sodium soy sauce: Reduces the overall salt content while still providing umami flavor.

Ketchup: Contributes a tangy sweetness and helps thicken the sauce.

Minced garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor.

Rice vinegar: Adds a mild acidity to balance the sweetness and richness.

Dried basil: Provides a subtle herbal note that complements the other flavors.

To enhance the flavor of the chicken thighs, consider browning them in a hot skillet with a bit of oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This step will add a rich, caramelized layer to the meat, which will deepen the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, you can thicken the sauce by removing the cooked chicken and simmering the sauce on the stove with a cornstarch slurry until it reaches your desired consistency.

• bone-in, skinless chicken thighs - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: They cook faster and are easier to eat, though they may be slightly less flavorful.

• bone-in, skinless chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: They have a similar cooking time and flavor profile, making them a good alternative.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: It provides a similar sweetness and consistency, though it has a slightly different flavor.

• honey - Substitute with agave nectar: It is another sweetener with a similar texture, though it is less viscous than honey.

• low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: It is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.

• low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: It is a soy-free alternative that is slightly sweeter but still provides a similar depth of flavor.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: It is thicker and less sweet, so you may need to add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the flavor.

• ketchup - Substitute with barbecue sauce: It adds a smoky flavor and sweetness, though it may alter the overall taste profile of the dish.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: It provides a similar flavor, though it is less potent. Use about ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: They offer a milder, sweeter flavor and can be minced to a similar consistency.

• rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: It has a similar acidity and can be used in the same quantity.

• rice vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: It provides a similar tangy flavor, though it is slightly more acidic.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried oregano: It offers a similar herbaceous flavor, though it is slightly more robust.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried thyme: It provides a similar earthy flavor, though it is a bit more subtle.

• Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.

• Transfer the cooled chicken thighs and sauce into an airtight container. If you have multiple pieces, consider layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The chicken thighs will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

• For longer storage, place the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container or bag with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of how long the chicken thighs have been stored.

• When ready to eat, thaw the chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and maintains the quality of the meat.

• Reheat the chicken thighs in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

• If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or slimy texture, discard the chicken thighs immediately as these are signs of spoilage.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in an oven-safe dish, and spoon some of the sauce over the top to keep them moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is warmed through.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet along with some of the sauce. Cover and heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken thighs in a microwave-safe dish. Spoon some of the sauce over the top. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then check and stir. Continue heating in 1-minute increments until the chicken is hot.

• Slow Cooker Method: If you have some extra time, you can reheat the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Place the chicken and sauce back into the slow cooker. Set it on low and heat for 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is warmed through.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly. This method will also help to crisp up the exterior slightly.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used to simmer at a lower temperature than other cooking methods, allowing for unattended cooking.

• Small bowl: Used for mixing the sauce ingredients together before pouring over the chicken.

• Whisk: A kitchen utensil used to blend ingredients smoothly and incorporate air into the mixture.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the honey, soy sauce, and ketchup accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the minced garlic, rice vinegar, and dried basil precisely.

• Tongs: Handy for placing the chicken thighs into the slow cooker and for serving them once cooked.

• Serving platter: Used to present the cooked chicken thighs attractively.

• Knife: Useful for mincing the garlic if not using pre-minced garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for mincing the garlic.

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure and mix honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and dried basil the night before.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of mincing fresh garlic.

Line the slow cooker: Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup, saving you time on washing dishes.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Quick side dishes: Pair with microwaveable rice or steamed vegetables for a fast, complete meal.