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Crispy Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

crispy slow cooker honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image
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A family-friendly slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken thighs in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, finished under the broiler for a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
  • 1/2 cup pure honey
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Optionally sear in a hot skillet with oil for 2-3 minutes per side.
  2. In a glass measuring cup, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, ginger, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
  3. Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over the top, coating all pieces. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Remove chicken from slow cooker. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Preheat oven broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place chicken on it. Spoon thickened sauce over chicken and broil for 2-4 minutes until edges bubble and caramelize, flipping halfway if needed.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for browning. The final broil step is essential for achieving the crispy texture. If the sauce is too thick after broiling, add a splash of water. For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, family meals, weeknight dinner, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://merrymorsel.com/crispy-slow-cooker-honey-garlic-chicken-thighs-5-step-easy-dinner/