Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is a simple, comforting dish that brings sweet and garlicky flavors together with tender chicken and a mix of fresh vegetables. The honey adds a lovely touch of sweetness while the garlic gives it a nice punch, making every bite full of flavor. Plus, cooking everything in the slow cooker means the chicken turns out super juicy and the veggies soak up all the tasty sauce.
I love making this recipe when I want something easy but satisfying. Just toss chicken, your favorite veggies, and a few simple ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. I always tell myself it’s like a delicious little surprise waiting for me after a busy day. The smell alone is enough to make my mouth water before dinner time!
When I serve this dish, I usually add a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the yummy sauce. It’s also great with some crusty bread if you want to keep it simpler. This recipe always feels like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s a favorite in my house because everyone loves how the sweet and garlicky flavors come together so nicely with the soft veggies and tender chicken.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend bone-in, skin-on thighs for juicy, flavorful meat. You can use boneless or chicken breasts, but thighs stay moist better in the slow cooker.
Baby Carrots & Potatoes: Baby carrots and potatoes cook evenly and soak up the sauce nicely. If you don’t have baby potatoes, regular potatoes cut into chunks work well.
Green Beans: Added near the end to keep some snap. Frozen green beans can be used, just add a bit earlier to cook through.
Honey & Soy Sauce: The sweet and salty combo is key here. If you want less sugar, reduce honey or swap soy sauce for low-sodium version.
Ketchup: Adds a subtle tang and depth. If unavailable, you can try tomato paste mixed with a little vinegar and sugar as a replacement.
How Do I Get the Sauce Just Right Without It Being Too Watery?
Slow cooker moisture often makes sauces runny. To keep the sauce thick and flavorful:
- After cooking, remove the chicken and veggies first.
- Pour the sauce into a pan and simmer on medium heat to reduce it.
- This concentrates flavors and thickens it nicely.
- If you want a quicker thickening, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir into the simmering sauce.
This step creates that lovely sticky coating on the chicken and veggies that makes you want to eat more!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – perfect for cooking chicken and veggies slowly so flavors blend and meat stays tender.
- Mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine the sauce ingredients before pouring over the food.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the honey, soy sauce, and spices just right.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon – useful for lifting chicken and veggies out without breaking them.
- Small saucepan (optional) – for reducing the sauce after cooking if you want it thicker.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat; cook time may be shorter.
- Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and freshness—they hold up well in the slow cooker.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Stir in fresh ginger with garlic for a bright, aromatic twist that pairs great with the honey glaze.
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 4-5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb baby carrots
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 8 oz green beans, trimmed
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, then you’ll let the slow cooker do its magic for 6-7 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high). Add the green beans during the last 30 minutes. Don’t forget a few minutes to finish the sauce if you want it thicker before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until everything is well blended.
2. Prepare the Veggies and Chicken:
Put the halved baby potatoes and baby carrots in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour about half of the honey garlic sauce over the veggies and toss gently to coat. Next, arrange the chicken thighs on top in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the chicken.
3. Slow Cook Everything Together:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Add Green Beans Near the End:
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is over, add the trimmed green beans on top. Stir them gently into the sauce so they cook but stay crisp-tender.
5. Finish and Serve:
When done, carefully take out the chicken and vegetables and put them on a serving dish. If you like a thicker sauce, pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it’s as thick as you want. Drizzle the sauce over everything and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the slow cooker from being too cold initially.
Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap baby carrots and potatoes for other slow cooker-friendly veggies like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then cook according to the recipe the next day, allowing extra time if cooking from cold.
