Introduction

This delicious slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a flavorful honey garlic sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights, it allows you to prepare a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken thighs – 1 kg
Carrots – 3 medium, sliced
Bell peppers – 2, chopped
Onion – 1 large, diced
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Honey – 100 ml
Soy sauce – 60 ml
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh thyme – a handful, chopped

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french

Cook Time – 6 heures
Total Time – 6 heures 15 minutes
Yield – 4 personnes

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients: chicken pieces, mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini), honey, garlic, soy sauce, and any additional seasonings you prefer.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Place the seasoned chicken pieces at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the mixed vegetables on top.

Step 5: Pour the Sauce

Pour the honey and garlic sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is thoroughly coated.

Step 6: Cook in the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

After the cooking time is completed, check that the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, serve the chicken and vegetables warm, drizzled with any remaining sauce from the slow cooker.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Options

You can use various parts of the chicken, such as thighs or breasts, depending on your preference.

Note 2: Vegetable Variations

Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables as desired. Broccoli, snap peas, or potatoes can be excellent additions.

Note 3: Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Note 4: Flavor Adjustments

Adjust sweetness or saltiness by modifying the amount of honey or soy sauce in the recipe according to your taste.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is an excellent technique for developing deep flavors in dishes like chicken and vegetables. Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to simmer for hours, creating tender meat and robust flavor.

Sautéing

Before slow cooking, sautéing the chicken and aromatic vegetables helps to caramelize their natural sugars, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Deglazing

After sautéing, deglazing the pan with a bit of liquid can help to lift the browned bits stuck to the bottom, incorporating those flavorful morsels into the sauce.

Layering Ingredients

When using a slow cooker, it is important to layer ingredients properly. Start with root vegetables at the bottom to withstand the heat, followed by meats and then sauce, ensuring even cooking.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in honey and garlic enhances the flavor and contributes moisture during the cooking process. This step can be done a few hours in advance or even overnight for best results.

Taste Testing

Towards the end of the cooking time, taste the sauce to adjust seasoning. Adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar can elevate the flavors.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but if using frozen, increase the cooking time to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

What vegetables are best for slow cooking?

Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and turnips are ideal for slow cooking, as they hold up well over long cooking times.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I add other flavors to the honey garlic sauce?

Yes! You can customize the sauce with ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, or lemon juice for additional flavor dimensions.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and portion it out for easy, reheatable meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

The honey garlic chicken and vegetables cooked in a slow cooker is a delightful and easy meal option that blends savory and sweet flavors perfectly. This dish not only offers convenience but also allows for a variety of ingredient substitutions, making it versatile for any palate. The slow cooking method helps to enhance the flavors, ensuring a tender and flavorful meal that is sure to please family and friends alike.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey Garlic Tofu Stir-fry

Replace chicken with tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still captures the sweet and savory essence of the original recipe.

Honey Lemon Chicken Thighs

Incorporate a tangy lemon twist by adding lemon juice and zest to the honey garlic sauce for a refreshing flavor profile.

Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli

Swap the vegetables for broccoli and add a teriyaki sauce to create a different Asian-inspired dish that is both healthy and satisfying.

Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple

Add pineapple chunks to your chicken and vegetables to give a sweet and tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the honey garlic sauce.

Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp

Replace the chicken with shrimp and add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to this sweet and savory dish.

Crispy Honey Garlic Brussels Sprouts

Use Brussels sprouts as the main vegetable, roasting them for a crispy texture that complements the honey garlic flavor beautifully.