If there’s one dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face, it’s this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies. I remember the very first time I made it; my friends were over for a movie night, and I couldn’t resist trying something new. Let me tell you, the sweet aroma of honey and garlic wafting through the house was enough to have us all hovering around the kitchen as if we were waiting for a surprise cake to come out of the oven!
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you kick back and relax, binge-watching your favorite shows or spending time with loved ones. It’s cozy, it’s hearty, and best of all, it oozes a flavorful glaze that makes it feel like a fancy dinner without any of the fuss!
What’s in Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
Let’s break down the star players in this scrumptious recipe:
Chicken Thighs: I like using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs because they lock in moisture during cooking, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Plus, that crispy skin? Yes, please!
Honey: This is the sweet magic behind the glaze. It not only adds a lovely sweetness but also helps caramelize the chicken, making each bite delectable.
Soy Sauce: The salty counterpart to the honey, soy sauce adds depth and umami flavor to the dish. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is an excellent alternative.
Garlic: Is there ever a bad time for garlic? Minced cloves bring in that aromatic punch, making the dish irresistible even in its raw state.
Ground Ginger: A warm, spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the honey beautifully. Fresh ginger can also be used if you have it on hand!
Baby Potatoes: These little gems are perfect for soaking up all that honey garlic goodness. Halved for easy cooking, they add a lovely texture to the mix.
Carrots: Sweet and tender, they complement the chicken perfectly and add a splash of color to the plate.
Olive Oil: Just a touch of high-quality olive oil is used to sear the chicken. A little fat goes a long way in adding flavor!
Parsley: Though it’s just for garnish, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish visually appealing.
Is Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health benefits of this beauty. This dish is brimming with wholesome ingredients:
Chicken Thighs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, chicken thighs are rich in iron and zinc, which support energy levels and immune function.
Honey: While honey is a natural sweetener, it still contains calories and sugar, so moderation is key. However, it’s rich in antioxidants, which is always a plus!
Vegetables: The carrots and baby potatoes add important vitamins and minerals to your meal. Carrots are high in beta-carotene and vitamin A, while potatoes provide potassium and fiber.
Just a note to consider: If you’re mindful of sugar intake or have certain dietary restrictions, you might want to adjust the amount of honey or opt for a different type of glaze.
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 3 cups carrots, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies?
1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger to create the honey garlic glaze.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and sear for another 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
4. In the slow cooker, place the halved baby potatoes and sliced carrots at the bottom.
5. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the veggies.
6. Pour the honey garlic glaze generously over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Once done, carefully remove the chicken and veggies from the slow cooker. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for that vibrant touch!
Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Delight
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice to soak up that delicious honey garlic glaze. You can also serve it with crusty bread for that added satisfying crunch. Feeling adventurous? Try adding sliced bell peppers or snap peas to your vegetables mix for an extra burst of flavor and color!
Trust me, this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is bound to become a cherished recipe in your household. I can’t wait for you to try it! Share your experience; I’d love to hear how it turned out or any fun twists you made. Happy cooking, my friends!
