Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Sticky Chicken – Easy, Flavorful & Family-Friendly
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and flavorful dinner, this Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Sticky Chicken recipe is the perfect choice. With just chicken drumsticks, soy sauce, honey, and garlic, you can create a delicious sticky glaze that’s sweet, savory, and finger-licking good.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Only 4 ingredients – Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
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Set it and forget it – The slow cooker does all the work.
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Family-friendly – Kids and adults love the sticky, sweet flavor.
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Versatile – Works with drumsticks, thighs, or wings.
Ingredients
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8 chicken drumsticks
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½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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½ cup honey
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1 tablespoon minced garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken drumsticks into the slow cooker in an even layer. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sticky Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine:
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½ cup soy sauce
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½ cup honey
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1 tablespoon minced garlic
Stir until the honey is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken drumsticks. Use a spoon to turn them gently so they are coated on all sides.
Step 4: Slow Cook
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Low setting: Cook for 6–7 hours
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High setting: Cook for 3–4 hours
The chicken should be tender, juicy, and fully cooked through (internal temperature of at least 165°F / 74°C).
Step 5: Optional Sauce Thickening
If you want a thicker, glaze-like sauce:
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Remove the chicken from the slow cooker.
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Pour the sauce into a saucepan.
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Simmer over medium heat until it reduces to your desired thickness.
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Drizzle over the chicken before serving.
Variations & Flavor Tips
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Spicy Version – Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
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Tangy Twist – Mix in 2 tablespoons rice vinegar.
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Ginger Kick – Add 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger for a zesty touch.
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Sesame Aroma – A splash of sesame oil gives a nutty, rich flavor.
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Swap the Cut – Use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Sticky Slow Cooker Chicken with:
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Steamed rice or fried rice
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Roasted vegetables
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Asian-style slaw
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Noodles with stir-fried veggies
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags.
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Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Sticky Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend comfort food. With minimal prep and just a few pantry staples, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The sticky, sweet-savory glaze will have everyone asking for seconds!