Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious meal that practically cooks itself, then you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It combines tender chicken with vibrant veggies in a mouthwatering honey garlic sauce that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish makes life easier while still being packed with flavor!

What I love most about this recipe is how wholesome and simple it is. You can toss everything into the slow cooker in just 15 minutes, and let it work its magic. When you walk into your home later, the sweet aroma will have everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: Just throw everything in the slow cooker and relax while dinner cooks itself.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and savory taste appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch on Sunday, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Nutrient-Packed: With fresh vegetables included, this recipe is not just tasty but also good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Each component plays a role in creating that delicious honey garlic sauce that ties everything together!

For the Chicken and Veggies

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 1.5 lbs.)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic (Minced.)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 piece bell pepper (Chopped.)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots (Sliced.)
• 1 cup snap peas
• Salt and pepper (To taste.)

For Thickening (Optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to tweak it based on what you have or prefer.

• Swap the protein: You can use chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Try adding zucchini or cauliflower for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the amount of honey slightly.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes for a little kick if your family enjoys heat.

How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures they soak up all those lovely flavors from the sauce as they cook.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mixing these ingredients well is important because it creates that signature honey garlic flavor that will enhance every bite.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated; this ensures maximum flavor infusion while cooking.

Step 4: Add Veggies

Now it’s time to add in your chopped bell pepper, broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and snap peas. Stir gently! Distributing these colorful veggies throughout will make sure every serving is packed with good stuff.

Step 5: Seasoning

Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out all those wonderful flavors!

Step 6: Set It and Forget It

Cover your slow cooker with its lid, set it to low heat, and let it cook for 6 hours. This hands-off cooking method allows all those flavors to meld beautifully without any fuss.

Step 7: Thicken If Desired

If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water about 30 minutes before serving. Adding this mixture helps create a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to your chicken and veggies.

Step 8: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. This step not only makes for easier serving but also lets all those yummy flavors mix together nicely.

Step 9: Serve It Up!

Serve hot over rice or quinoa for a complete meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Enjoy every delicious bite!

With this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe in your repertoire, busy nights just got a whole lot tastier!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Making this dish is a breeze, but a few tips can take your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor of your dish but also add vibrant colors and textures that make it visually appealing.
• Don’t skip the ginger: Adding grated ginger brings a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness of honey and the savoriness of soy sauce. It balances the flavors beautifully!
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the amount of honey or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile while maintaining that delightful sweetness.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, green beans, or even corn would be excellent additions!
• Prep ahead: For an even quicker meal, prep the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pour everything into the slow cooker before heading out for the day.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe

Serving this delicious dish can be just as fun as making it! With a few creative touches, you can make it even more enticing.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over your dish for a nutty flavor and added crunch.
• Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens up every bite.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing! Fluffy steamed rice absorbs the sweet and savory sauce beautifully.
• Quinoa: For a healthy alternative, quinoa is packed with protein and adds a nutty taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the moist chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the honey garlic sauce and refreshes your palate.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have an inviting meal that’s sure to impress family or guests alike! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious dish fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date, so you know when to enjoy it by.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken and veggies into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some room in the container for expansion during freezing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken in the Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours. Ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) before serving.

What vegetables work best in this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe?

Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and even zucchini are great choices. Just keep an eye on cooking times as some veggies may cook faster than others.

Can I make this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe without soy sauce?

Absolutely! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos for a lighter alternative. Both will give you that desired flavor without soy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken And Veggies Recipe! It’s not only easy but also incredibly delicious and satisfying. Enjoy the delightful flavors and tender chicken paired with fresh veggies – perfect for any night of the week. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!