Name: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 16 ounces baby red potatoes (halved); 16 ounces baby carrots; 16 ounces green beans (trimmed); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves; 0.5 cup reduced sodium soy sauce; 0.5 cup honey; 0.25 cup ketchup; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried basil; 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Introduction to Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Why choose slow cooker recipes?

When it comes to easy and delicious meal preparation, slow cooker recipes are hard to beat. They offer a convenient way to enjoy home-cooked meals, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time. Imagine coming home to a warm, aromatic kitchen where your dinner is practically waiting for you! Slow cookers allow you to set it and forget it — perfect for busy young professionals balancing work, social life, and personal projects.

The joys of homemade cooking

Homemade cooking doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it fosters creativity and a sense of achievement. With this slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies recipe, you can whip up a delightful dish packed with wholesome ingredients. Cooking at home not only helps you control what goes into your meals but also allows you to explore flavors and textures. Want to impress your friends or family? A homemade meal shows you care, making it an especially great option for cozy gatherings.

Ready to dive into a dish that is nutritious, tasty, and incredibly simple to make? Follow along to see just how easy it is to create a delicious dinner with the fantastic flavors of honey and garlic!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Main ingredients

To create your delicious slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies, you’ll need a few key ingredients that meld beautifully together. Gather the following:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for that juicy flavor
16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved to ensure even cooking
16 ounces baby carrots, adding a nice crunch
16 ounces green beans, trimmed for a fresh touch
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a comforting and nutritious meal that won’t drown your schedule. Perfect for busy evenings!

Sauce ingredients

Now, let’s talk about the sauce that brings it all to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce for seasoning
½ cup honey to sweeten the pot
¼ cup ketchup for a tangy kick
2 cloves garlic, minced, to infuse flavor
1 teaspoon dried basil, adding some aromatic depth
½ teaspoon dried oregano for an herby essence
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper to finish it off

With this combination, you’re set for a savory dish that tantalizes the taste buds. Cooking can be creative! For more tips on balancing flavors, consider checking out resources like The Spice House. Enjoy!

Preparing Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Cooking is an adventure—especially when you can throw everything in a slow cooker and let it do the hard work for you! This slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies recipe not only fills your home with the most delightful aroma, but it also delivers wholesome and delicious meals with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to prepare this fantastic dish!

Gather your ingredients

Before you embark on your slow cooking journey, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved
16 ounces baby carrots
16 ounces green beans, trimmed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Now, for the honey garlic sauce:

½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
½ cup honey
¼ cup ketchup
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Don’t forget your trusty slow cooker and maybe a baking sheet if you decide to broil the chicken later!

Mix the sauce

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating that mouth-watering honey garlic sauce that will coat the chicken perfectly.

Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker

Now that your sauce is ready, it’s time to layer the ingredients in your slow cooker. Start with the chicken thighs at the bottom for even cooking, followed by the halved baby potatoes and baby carrots. Finally, pour that luscious sauce over the top. It’s okay if some of the veggies poke out—just give it a gentle stir to coat everything slightly.

Set the cooking mode and time

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you’re at home, basting the chicken with the sauce every hour makes a difference, ensuring each piece is succulent and flavorful. Remember to toss the green beans in during the last 30 minutes to keep them vibrant and crunchy.

Optional final broiling step

For an added layer of flavor and a beautiful finish, consider broiling the chicken for that irresistible crispy skin. Preheat your oven to broil, place the chicken on a baking sheet with the skin facing up, and broil for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step is optional, but you’ll thank yourself for it!

Once done, serve your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Variations on Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Trying new variations on your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies can be both fun and rewarding! Here are some ideas to keep your meals fresh and exciting.

Alternative Proteins

Switching up the protein can redefine this dish! Consider using tofu for a hearty vegetarian option or fish like salmon for a lighter twist. Both alternatives soak up the honey garlic sauce beautifully, delivering delicious flavors. If you're craving something different, try turkey bacon for a smokier kick or chicken ham for a unique twist.

Seasonal Vegetable Swaps

Maximize flavor by tailoring your veggies to the season. In spring, toss in asparagus or baby zucchini; in the summer, use bell peppers and corn; and during fall, try butternut squash or brussels sprouts. These fun swaps keep your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies vibrant and delicious throughout the year!

For more inspiration, check out Cooking Light for seasonal cooking tips.

Cooking tips and notes for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Adjusting cooking times

For this slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies recipe, cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model. If you're short on time, consider cooking on high for about 3-4 hours. For more tender chicken, opt for low heat for 7-8 hours. Just remember to check doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A quick probe thermometer can be your best friend in the kitchen!

Ensuring optimal flavor

To maximize flavor, make sure to coat the chicken well with the honey garlic sauce. Give everything a good stir before cooking and don’t forget to baste the chicken every hour for that delicious, sticky glaze. Adding green beans in the last 30 minutes helps them retain their crunch. Interested in how flavors meld over time? Check out this article about slow cooking for some great tips!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Pairing with Grains

When it comes to enjoying your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies, consider serving it over a base of fluffy grains. Brown rice or quinoa work beautifully, soaking up that irresistible honey garlic sauce. For a heartier option, try wild rice, which adds a nutty flavor and lovely texture. If you’re looking for something a bit different, couscous is a quick and delightful choice, perfect for soaking up every last bite of the sauce.

Best Side Dishes and Accompaniments

To balance the meal, think about adding light sides. A fresh garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can brighten the plate, or roasted asparagus will add a nice crunch. Don’t hesitate to throw together some crusty bread for mopping up any remaining sauce—after all, the sauce is half the fun! You could also explore pairing with steamed broccoli to boost those veggies even further.

Feeling adventurous? Try a tangy cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast!

Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

Planning a fantastic meal doesn't have to be complicated! Here’s a quick look at the timing for your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies:

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the veggies and mixing up that delicious honey garlic sauce.

Cooking Time

Let your slow cooker do the magic! Cook time is roughly 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just pop it in and let it work its wonders while you go about your day.

Total Time

In all, you’ll spend about 7 hours and 15 minutes to 8 hours and 15 minutes (including prep and cooking). Deliciousness awaits with minimal effort!

For a little more information on the benefits of slow cooking, check out Slow Cooker Magic for tips and tricks!

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

When it comes to a satisfying meal, slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies delivers on both flavor and nutrition. Let’s break down the key nutritional stats:

Calories

This comforting dish packs in approximately 410 calories per serving, making it a balanced option for dinner.

Protein

You'll also benefit from around 30 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the hearty chicken thighs—excellent for muscle maintenance and satiety.

Sodium

With about 850 milligrams of sodium per serving, this dish is relatively moderate in salt, especially if you opt for reduced sodium soy sauce.

Ultimately, enjoying this meal means indulging in delicious flavors while still keeping an eye on your nutritional needs. For more details on healthy eating and meal prepping, check out Harvard Health Publishing.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

How can I make this dish healthier?

If you're looking to lighten up your slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies, consider swapping out the chicken thighs for skinless boneless chicken breasts. This reduces fat while keeping the dish lean. You can also use less honey and increase the amount of garlic for flavor without added sugar. Adding more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini will boost fiber and nutrients.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Using frozen vegetables is a great alternative and saves prep time. Just add them to the slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies during the last hour of cooking to ensure they don’t become mushy. Keep in mind that you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual portions for a quick meal. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Need more tips on storage? Check out FoodSafety.gov for great advice on properly storing leftovers.

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies

In conclusion, slow cooker honey garlic chicken and veggies is a fantastic dish to simplify weeknight meals. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this flavorful recipe ensures a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Don’t forget to share your own twists and enjoy every juicy bite!