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Slow Cooker Honey Butter Garlic Chicken

Slow Cooker Honey Butter Garlic Chicken


  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Slow Cooker Honey Butter Garlic Chicken recipe combines tender boneless, skinless chicken simmered in a luscious honey, butter, and garlic sauce. Perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, it’s a hands-off, comforting dish ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The slow cooking ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that melts in your mouth, complemented by a rich, aromatic sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
  • Rosemary or oregano (for herbaceous boost)
  • Coconut oil or dairy-free margarine (for dairy-free version)
  • Baby potatoes, carrots, or green beans (for vegetable add-ins)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces evenly with salt and pepper on all sides. This ensures the meat is delicious and well-seasoned from the inside out.
  2. Mix the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and fully blended to create a balanced sweet and savory sauce base.
  3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the honey butter garlic sauce evenly over the top. Add a splash (about 1/4 cup) of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist. Optionally, sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for additional aroma.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The longer slow cooking on low results in more tender, juicy chicken.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, shred the chicken gently with a fork if desired, or serve whole. Spoon the luscious honey butter garlic sauce over the chicken to enjoy the full flavor.

Notes

  • Use dark meat (chicken thighs) for juicier, less dry results than breasts.
  • Keep the slow cooker lid closed during cooking to maintain moisture and consistent temperature.
  • Butter should be softened to room temperature for easy mixing with honey and garlic.
  • For added texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts before serving.
  • Adjust sweetness by tasting the sauce before cooking; add more honey or garlic based on preference.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 230 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: Slow cooker chicken, Honey butter garlic chicken, Easy chicken recipe, Gluten free chicken, Comfortable food