Slow Cooker One Pot Honey Garlic Chicken – Easy & Flavor-Packed Dinner

Looking for a weeknight meal that’s effortless yet bursting with flavor? This Slow Cooker One Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is your perfect answer! Made with tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, sticky honey garlic sauce, this easy one-pot recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

With minimal prep and just one slow cooker, this dish delivers deep, savory-sweet flavors the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

• One-pot slow cooker meal – fewer dishes, more flavor

• Perfectly tender, juicy chicken every time

• Rich honey garlic sauce with sweet, savory, and herby notes

• Easy to prep ahead – great for busy days

• Flexible recipe – spice it up or add an Asian twist

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Main Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – rich flavor and juicy texture

• Salt and pepper, to taste – basic seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for browning the chicken

• 6 cloves garlic, minced – bold aromatic flavor

• 1/2 cup honey – natural sweetness and sticky glaze

• 1/4 cup soy sauce – salty umami depth

• 1/4 cup ketchup – adds tang and balance

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – herbal earthiness

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – fresh finishing touch

• 1/2 cup chicken broth – keeps the chicken moist

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) – for thickening the sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This enhances flavor and helps the skin crisp up during searing.

 Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan – brown in batches if needed for the best texture.

Transfer browned chicken thighs to your slow cooker.

 Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Minced garlic

• Honey

• Soy sauce

• Ketchup

• Dried oregano

• Chicken broth

This creates a sticky, savory-sweet sauce that will coat the chicken perfectly.

 Step 4: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.

Cover with the lid and cook:

• On LOW for 6–7 hours, or

• On HIGH for 3–4 hours

The chicken should be fork-tender and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

 Step 5: (Optional) Thicken the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, 30 minutes before serving:

• Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water

• Stir the mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker

• Cover and continue cooking until sauce thickens slightly

 Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve the chicken with your favorite sides like rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

What to Serve With Honey Garlic Chicken

• Steamed white or jasmine rice

• Roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)

• Mashed potatoes or garlic herb rice

• Fresh garden salad or slaw

• Noodles or quinoa for a lighter option

Variations & Customization Ideas

 Add Some Heat

• Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy twist.

Asian-Inspired Flavors

• Mix in 1 teaspoon sesame oil to the sauce.

• Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

 Zesty Citrus Kick

• Stir in 1 tablespoon orange zest or a splash of fresh orange juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.

 Make it Boneless

• Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a leaner option. Reduce cooking time slightly (about 5–6 hours on low).

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken with sauce for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through.

FAQs – Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

 Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work great. Just reduce the cook time by about 30–60 minutes depending on the size.

 Do I have to sear the chicken first?

It’s highly recommended for better flavor and texture, but not required. You can skip it if you’re short on time.

 Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker can handle the volume. You may need to add a bit more broth or adjust the seasoning slightly.

 Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker One Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and succulent. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s ideal for busy families, cozy dinners, or stress-free meal prep.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or just craving comfort food, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

enjoy!