Savory Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Honey-Garlic Glaze

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 6 hours
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're in search of a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner, these Savory Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Honey-Garlic Glaze are your ticket to a delightful meal. Think tender chicken that falls off the bone, soaked in a luscious, sticky glaze. Perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend meal!

Ingredients for Savory Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Honey-Garlic Glaze

Chicken thighs are the star here, offering juiciness and flavor that stands up to slow cooking. Honey brings a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the glaze. Low-sodium soy sauce adds depth and controls the saltiness, while ketchup introduces a tangy balance. For aromatics, garlic and ginger provide warmth and a hint of spice. A splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the dish, and a touch of water helps meld everything together. Cornstarch mixed with cold water is the secret to a perfectly thickened sauce. For finishing touches, green onions and sesame seeds provide freshness and a subtle crunch, while a pinch of black pepper enhances the overall flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze mixture overnight in the fridge.
  • Use fresh ginger instead of powdered — it makes a world of difference.
  • If you prefer a crispier skin, pop the thighs under a broiler for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken thighs are delicious over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside a simple side of roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, try pairing with a crisp cucumber salad to contrast the rich glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can, but reduce the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions with the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Savory Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Honey-Garlic Glaze Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a medium bowl and whisk together your glaze ingredients: honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, and water. Make sure everything is well combined; this is your flavor powerhouse.

Next, arrange the chicken thighs in your crockpot. You want them in a single layer so each piece gets an equal amount of love from the glaze.

Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each thigh is nicely coated. Set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for about 6 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

When the time is up, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside. You’ll need those cooking juices, so don’t toss them!

Transfer the juices to a saucepan over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then slowly whisk it into the saucepan. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.

Return the chicken to the crockpot and pour the thickened sauce over it. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds just before serving for that pop of flavor and color.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy, hands-off cooking with minimal prep.
  • Rich, umami flavors from the sweet and savory glaze.
  • Perfectly tender chicken every time.
  • Uses common pantry items and fresh staples.

Ingredients

6 bone-in chicken thighs
1 cup honey
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 tsp sesame seeds
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, and water.
2. Arrange chicken thighs in the crockpot in a single layer.
3. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Once done, carefully remove chicken and set aside.
6. Transfer the cooking juices to a saucepan over medium heat.
7. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then slowly whisk into the saucepan.
8. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
9. Return chicken to the crockpot and pour the thickened sauce over.
10. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

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