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- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) - Sesame seeds (for garnish) Gather these ingredients before you start. The chicken thighs are the star of this dish. Their rich flavor makes them perfect for slow cooking. Honey adds sweetness. It balances well with soy sauce's saltiness. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note. For those who like a kick, the red pepper flakes are optional. They can enhance the dish's flavor but are not a must. Fresh green onions and sesame seeds are for garnish. They not only look great but also add extra flavor. This mix creates a tasty marinade. It coats the chicken thighs and infuses them with flavor. Make sure everything is ready for a smooth cooking process. Enjoy the hands-on experience with these simple ingredients! {{ingredient_image_2}} To make the marinade, start by mixing your ingredients in a medium bowl. You will need: - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Whisk these together until smooth. This blend gives the chicken a sweet and savory flavor. Next, take your chicken thighs. Make sure they are bone-in and skin-on for the best results. Place them in the slow cooker, skin-side up. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Use a spoon to coat each piece well. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. Now, it’s time to set up your slow cooker. Cover it with the lid and choose your cooking setting. You can cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. If you need it done faster, set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken will be done when it’s tender and falls off the bone easily. Keep an eye on it as it cooks. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water! When the chicken finishes cooking, carefully take it out. Use tongs to avoid burning yourself. Place it on a serving platter. If you like a thicker sauce, pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan. Simmer it on medium heat for about 5 to 10 minutes to thicken. Drizzle this sauce over the chicken. For garnish, sprinkle thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. Serve your honey garlic chicken thighs with fluffy steamed rice or a fresh salad. These sides balance the dish perfectly and make for a complete meal! To achieve tender chicken, choose bone-in, skin-on thighs. This helps keep the meat juicy. Always coat the chicken well with the marinade. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes before cooking. For best results, marinate overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply. For a lovely plate, serve the chicken on a shallow bowl with rice below. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken for shine. Use vibrant green onions and sesame seeds as garnishes. They add color and crunch. You can also add a slice of lime on the side for a fresh touch. To add a twist, try adding spices like five-spice powder or chili flakes. You can also mix in a splash of orange juice for sweetness. If you want it less sweet, cut back on the honey. Adjust the soy sauce for saltiness as needed. These small changes can make a big difference. Pro Tips Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the honey garlic mixture overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly. Skin Crisping Method: If you enjoy crispy skin, place the cooked chicken thighs under a broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking. This will give you a delightful crunch. Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the honey by a tablespoon or two. For a more savory profile, add a bit more soy sauce. Serving Suggestions: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables or a side of quinoa for a nutritious meal. The honey garlic sauce complements a variety of sides well. {{image_4}} If you want to switch up the chicken thighs, here are some options: - Use chicken drumsticks for a juicier bite. - Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice for less fat. - Try tofu for a vegetarian version. For lower calories or sodium, consider these swaps: - Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. - Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for less sodium. - Replace apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for a zesty twist. To enhance the flavor, you can add different herbs and spices: - Fresh thyme or rosemary can bring a new taste. - A pinch of cumin or paprika adds warmth and depth. For an Asian-inspired twist, try these: - Replace soy sauce with teriyaki or hoisin sauce for sweetness. - Add some sriracha for a spicier kick. If you don’t have a slow cooker, no worries! You can still enjoy this dish: - Bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 40-50 minutes. - Use a stovetop method by searing the chicken first, then simmering it in the sauce. For those in a hurry, a pressure cooker works well too: - Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 10 minutes. - Let the pressure release naturally for a tender result. To keep your chicken thighs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. This helps keep the chicken safe and tasty. Use the chicken within three to four days for the best flavor. If you want to save them for later, freezing is a great option. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Frozen chicken thighs can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label the bag with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them properly is key. The best way to reheat chicken thighs is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. This keeps the moisture in. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until it's warm all the way through. You can also use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat in short bursts of 1 to 2 minutes, checking in between, until it’s hot. In the fridge, cooked honey garlic chicken thighs last about three to four days. In the freezer, they can stay good for up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If the chicken has an off smell, a change in color, or a slimy texture, it’s best to throw it away. Freshness is important for both safety and great taste! You cook chicken thighs in the slow cooker for 4 to 6 hours on low heat. If you're short on time, set it to high heat for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily come off the bone. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They will cook faster, so check for doneness around the 3 to 4-hour mark on low heat. Serve honey garlic chicken thighs with fluffy steamed rice or a crisp salad. You can also pair them with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. No, it is not safe to leave leftovers out overnight. Always refrigerate leftovers within two hours to prevent spoilage. To add spice, include red pepper flakes in the marinade. Adjust the amount to fit your heat preference. You can also use hot sauce for extra kick. In this article, we covered a tasty honey garlic chicken thigh recipe. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips. Variations and storage options can help you make this dish your own. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and fun. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and sides. Enjoy making this easy meal for your family, and impress them with your cooking skills!

Sweet and Savory Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, this slow cooker chicken dish is perfect for a comforting meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 pieces green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • to taste none sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you desire some heat). Use a whisk to blend the ingredients thoroughly into a harmonious marinade.
  • Arrange the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, making sure they are skin-side up. Pour the honey garlic marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each thigh is generously coated with the sauce.
  • Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the device to low heat. Allow the chicken to cook for 4 to 6 hours, or for a quicker option, set to high heat for 2 to 3 hours, until the meat is cooked through and tender enough to fall off the bone.
  • Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. For those who prefer a thicker sauce, pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat for approximately 5 to 10 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens.
  • Drizzle the enhanced sauce over the chicken thighs, and for a vibrant finishing touch, garnish with the sliced green onions and a sprinkling of sesame seeds.
  • Serve the dish alongside fluffy steamed rice or a refreshing salad for a complete and satisfying meal!

Notes

For an elegant presentation, serve the chicken over rice and drizzle with sauce.
Keyword chicken, honey garlic, slow cooker