Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by an irresistible aroma of sweet honey and savory garlic, slowly transforming ordinary chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece. This Crock Pot Garlic Honey Chicken Thighs recipe is your ticket to an effortless, mind-blowing dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a delicious meal that practically cooks itself, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and browning.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined and smooth.
- Lightly grease the inside of the crock pot with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the crock pot, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Pour the honey-garlic mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set to low heat setting for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer - it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: For a crispy exterior, transfer the chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect flavor absorption and prevent excess moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring both safety and juiciness.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in the honey-garlic mixture for 30 minutes before cooking, if time permits.
- If you prefer a glossier, caramelized finish, brush additional honey mixture during the last hour of cooking.
- To prevent dry chicken, avoid lifting the crock pot lid too frequently during cooking, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
- For a low-carb option, substitute honey with a sugar-free alternative or use a small amount of sugar-free maple syrup.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and are perfect for quick lunch meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 309kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 93mg
