Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the chicken

01 - 6–8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred)
02 - Salt, to taste
03 - Pepper, to taste
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ For the sauce

05 - 1/3 cup honey
06 - 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
07 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
09 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
10 - 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
11 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

→ For thickening the sauce (optional)

12 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
13 - 2 tablespoons water

→ For garnish

14 - Chopped green onions
15 - Sesame seeds

# Instructions:

01 - Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. This step is optional but enhances the flavor.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
03 - Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
04 - If you'd like a thicker sauce, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Stir the mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for 10–15 minutes, until thickened.
05 - Return the chicken to the slow cooker to coat with the sauce. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

# Notes:

01 - Bone-in chicken thighs are recommended for juicier meat, but you can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts if preferred. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
02 - For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 1–2 hours before cooking.
03 - Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.