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Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Best 4-Ingredient Recipe

crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

This quick and easy crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs recipe uses just four simple ingredients and requires minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, the slow cooker does all the work, delivering tender, juicy chicken in a sweet and savory glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 1/2 tablespoons)
  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat if desired.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and soy sauce until combined. Alternatively, pour them directly into the slow cooker and stir. Add the minced garlic and stir.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Pour the honey garlic mixture over the top, ensuring each piece is coated. Use tongs to flip them if needed.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
  5. Once cooked, either shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker or lift out whole pieces with tongs.
  6. For a thicker sauce, pour the remaining liquid from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook for 4-5 minutes until reduced and thickened. Pour back over the chicken.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

For a milder garlic flavor, add all garlic at the beginning. For a punchier taste, reserve half and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time to 3-4 hours on low and check early. To prevent watery sauce, reduce on the stovetop after cooking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot honey garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, 4-ingredient dinner, honey garlic chicken, potluck chicken