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Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken

Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken - Hearty Food Ideas

Picture this: after a long day, you're finally home. You're tired, craving comfort food, but also want something easy to whip up. Enter crockpot honey garlic chicken. 
This dish is not just any chicken; it’s a delightful combination of sweet honey and fragrant garlic, perfectly tenderized after hours of slow cooking. Now, let’s not mince words—this recipe is about to become your go-to for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup tamari sauce or soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons spicy chili paste for those who like a kick
  • 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs like scallions and cilantro for that fresh pop
  • 1/4 cup organic tomato ketchup
  • 3 cups broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
  • 3 tablespoons raw honey
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice, for serving
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger it adds a zesty undertone

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
  1. First things first! Mince those garlic cloves and chop your herbs. Gather all your ingredients in one spot. This makes the whole process smoother. You don’t want to be scrambling mid-recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the tamari sauce or soy sauce, spicy chili paste, seasoned rice vinegar, tomato ketchup, raw honey, and minced garlic. Whisk this mixture until it's smooth. This sauce is where the flavor comes from, so make sure everything melds well.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Place your chicken breasts or thighs into the crockpot. Pour the sauce over the chicken. Ensure every piece is coated. Adding a pinch of freshly ground black pepper at this stage enhances the flavors immensely.
Step 4: Slow Cook It
  1. Cover the crockpot and set it to low for about 4-6 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can set it to high for about 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it's cooked through and can be easily shredded with a fork.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli
  1. Approximately 30 minutes before the cooking is done, add your steamed or roasted broccoli to the crockpot. This way, the broccoli absorbs some of those fabulous flavors without becoming mushy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
  1. When it's time to eat, fluff up your rice. Serve the chicken on a bed of rice, placing the broccoli alongside. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the crockpot over the top. Don’t forget the toasted sesame seeds for a nice crunch and visual appeal. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Thighs tend to be juicier than breasts, which can dry out. Opt for thighs for optimal tenderness.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet, cut the honey by half. This allows the savory flavors to shine through more.
  • Experiment with Spice: Add more chili paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes for increased heat. Know your audience!
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. They add color and nutrition.
  • Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, remove the chicken towards the end of cooking and whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).