As I stirred the heavenly mixture of soy sauce, honey, and garlic in my kitchen, a wave of anticipation washed over me—this was going to be an epic meal. Today’s recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies isn’t just another dinner option; it’s your ticket to a stress-free evening where homemade comfort meets easy prep. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker delight offers an irresistible perk: you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you tackle your to-do list. Plus, with tender chicken and vibrant veggies lovingly cooked to perfection, it’s bound to be a family favorite. Ready to elevate your dinner game and make your taste buds dance? Let’s dive into this flavorful affair!
Why Is This Recipe So Irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Finest: Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the magic while you relax at home.
Perfect Flavor Balance: The sweet honey melds perfectly with savory soy sauce and garlic, creating a sauce that you'll crave time and time again.
Nutritious and Colorful: Featuring vibrant veggies like carrots and green beans, this dish is not just delicious, but also packed with nutrients.
Family-Friendly Appeal: The combination of tender chicken and hearty vegetables will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Meal Prep Winner: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is an excellent option for busy weeknights. Pair it with Garlic Butter Veggies for a complete meal.
Versatile Options: Enjoy it over rice or with a side of crusty bread; the possibilities are endless!
Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Ingredients
• Get ready to create an unforgettable meal!
For the Sauce
- Reduced sodium soy sauce – A lower-salt option that still adds a rich umami flavor.
- Honey – This brings a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
- Ketchup – Adds a touch of sweetness and tang to the sauce blend.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives an aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
- Dried basil – This herb complements the sauce with its earthy notes.
- Dried oregano – Adds a warm, slightly bitter flavor that ties the sauce together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – For a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Ground black pepper – A staple seasoning that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
For the Chicken and Veggies
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – These thighs remain juicy and tender during cooking, soaking up all the lovely flavors.
- Halved baby red potatoes – They add heartiness and hold their shape well when cooked.
- Baby carrots – These tender veggies not only taste sweet but also add a pop of color to the dish.
- Trimmed green beans – They contribute delightful crunch and vibrant green hues just before serving.
With these ingredients ready, you're well on your way to a sumptuous Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce, ½ cup honey, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. This sweet and savory sauce will form the foundation of your Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Veggies to the Slow Cooker
Place 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 16 ounces of halved baby red potatoes, and 16 ounces of baby carrots into a 6-quart slow cooker. Arrange the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking. This combination of ingredients will not only capture the essence of the sauce but also create a colorful and hearty meal.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Gently toss everything together to ensure that every piece is equally coated in the flavorful sauce. This step is crucial, as it allows the Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies to absorb the amazing flavors during cooking.
Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low for 7-8 hours, or on High for 3-4 hours. If possible, baste the chicken every hour to keep it moist and infused with flavor. During cooking, the chicken skin will gradually become tender and the veggies will brighten up, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.
Step 5: Add Green Beans
About 30 minutes before serving, add 16 ounces of trimmed green beans to the slow cooker. This ensures that the green beans retain their vibrant color and slightly crunchy texture. They will complement the tender chicken and hearty veggies, making your Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies dish even more delightful.
Step 6: Crisp the Chicken Skin
For a golden, crispy skin finish, preheat your oven to broil. Carefully transfer the chicken thighs (skin side up) onto a baking sheet and broil them for about 3-4 minutes until they reach a beautiful golden brown color. This step elevates the dish, adding a deliciously crispy texture that everyone will love.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies hot from the slow cooker, spooning the extra sauce over each serving. To make it even more inviting, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This dish not only looks stunning but also promises a comforting and satisfying meal for you and your loved ones.
Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own—adding your favorite flavors and ingredients will only enhance the experience!
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Dairy-Free: Swap ketchup with a homemade tomato puree; just blend tomatoes for a natural base without dairy.
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Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra layer of heat. The spice will awaken your taste buds and create a delightful contrast with the honey's sweetness.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based twist. With a deliciously rich sauce, you won’t even miss the meat!
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Flavor Boosting Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant and earthy enhancement. These herbs will add depth and a garden-fresh aroma to your slow cooker.
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Sweet and Tangy: Mix a bit of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice into the sauce to brighten up the flavor profile; a zesty hint will elevate this delectable dish into a new dimension.
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Bursting with Veggies: Add bell peppers or snap peas for more colors and textures. You can never have too many vegetables, and they bring delightful crunch and sweetness.
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Crispy Chicken Alternative: For a differently textured dinner, try frying the chicken after marinating it. Quickly pan-sear each piece for a crispy exterior before adding them to the slow cooker.
Pair any of these variations with a side like Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Potatoes for a complete and comforting meal!
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
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Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for juiciness. Boneless pieces can dry out, missing that succulent texture you want in your Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies.
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Don’t Skip Basting: Basting the chicken every hour enhances flavor and moisture. If you forget this step, you might end up with drier chicken.
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Control the Heat: Cooking on Low allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, while High is great for a quicker fix. Just don’t rush the process too much!
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Add Veggies Wisely: Incorporate veggies like green beans later in the cooking process to maintain their crunch. Adding them too early can lead to mushy results.
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Broil with Care: When crisping the chicken skin, watch closely while broiling. It only takes a few minutes to go from perfectly golden to burnt.
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Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients, like adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang or more honey for extra sweetness. This way, you’ll create a Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies that’s uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce and chop all your vegetables, including the baby potatoes, carrots, and green beans, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the chopped veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you're ready to cook, add the chicken thighs and sauce to the slow cooker, followed by the veggies. If you're short on time, you can also marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight for deeper flavor. Just remember to add the green beans about 30 minutes before serving to keep them vibrant and crunchy. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each bite delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Enjoy your comforting meal again!
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Looking to create a spectacular spread that perfectly complements your comforting dish?
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully, making each bite a dreamy experience.
- Garlic Butter Green Beans: A simple sauté in garlic and butter elevates green beans to a tasty side that resonates with the sweetness of the chicken.
Roasted veggies are another fantastic pairing. The caramelized edges bring out the natural sweetness while enhancing your meal's overall flavor and texture.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, it balances out the richness of the chicken with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon zest.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: For a delightful sweetness that mirrors the chicken's flavor, these will add a delightful pop of color to your plate.
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Crispy Bread Rolls: Perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce, soft rolls add a comforting touch to the meal. Enjoy it with warm, homemade rolls that will leave everyone smiling.
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Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water: A crisp white wine enhances the meal's flavors, while sparkling water with a hint of lime keeps things refreshing.
Add these sides, and you’ll have a feast that’s sure to impress — perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings!
Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They remain juicy and tender during slow cooking, soaking up all the delicious sauce. If you prefer boneless options, keep in mind that they can dry out and lack that rich flavor you want.
How should I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors of the Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies to deepen, making each bite even more delightful. Just be sure to reheat until piping hot before enjoying!
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! To freeze your Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies, transfer the cooled meal into a sealed freezer bag or airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
For optimal flavor, thaw the frozen dish overnight in the fridge. When ready to reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce, ensuring it retains that mouthwatering taste!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This recipe contains soy sauce, which has gluten, so for those with gluten allergies, look for a gluten-free soy sauce substitute. Additionally, if you're preparing this for pets, avoid giving them chicken bones as they can splinter. Always consult a vet if you're unsure about ingredients suitable for your furry friends.
What should I do if my chicken skin isn’t crispy?
If your chicken skin isn’t crispy, broiling it for a few minutes can fix that! Preheat your oven to broil, place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet, and watch closely as it turns golden brown and crispy within 3-4 minutes. This gives your dish an irresistible texture!
Sweet and Savory Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Delight
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Reduced sodium soy sauce
- 0.5 cup Honey
- 0.25 cup Ketchup
- 2 cloves Minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
Chicken and Veggies Ingredients
- 8 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 16 ounces Halved baby red potatoes
- 16 ounces Baby carrots
- 16 ounces Trimmed green beans
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients.
- Place chicken thighs, potatoes, and carrots into the slow cooker.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the ingredients and toss gently.
- Cover and cook on Low for 7-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
- Add green beans 30 minutes before serving.
- Broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes for a crispy skin finish.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
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