recipe to cook in a slow cooker
The Best recipe to cook in a slow cooker
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when I don’t have time to stand over the stove, but it’s also great for weekends when I want to prep ahead and enjoy the day without worrying about dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Plus, it’s a balanced meal with fiber, vitamins, and protein, so I know my family is getting something nourishing without a lot of extra effort. It’s become a staple in our house because it’s simple, delicious, and always a hit.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
A sweet and savory chicken dish that cooks effortlessly in the slow cooker. The honey and garlic glaze caramelizes beautifully, making this a family favorite with minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. -
2
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned (optional but recommended for flavor). Transfer to the slow cooker. -
3
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. -
4
Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-2.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. -
5
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred or leave whole. Skim excess fat from the sauce if needed. -
6
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker sauce and cook on HIGH for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened. -
7
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and coat with the thickened sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. -
8
Serve hot over steamed rice or with roasted vegetables.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker (5-6 quart)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
1. Can I leave my slow cooker unattended while cooking?
Yes, slow cookers are designed to be safe for unattended cooking. They operate at low temperatures and are well-insulated, making them ideal for long, hands-off cooking. However, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, ensure the lid is properly sealed, and avoid overfilling (usually no more than two-thirds full). For added safety, place the slow cooker on a heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials.
2. Do I need to brown meat before adding it to the slow cooker?
While browning meat isn’t strictly necessary, it enhances flavor and texture. Searing meat in a pan before slow cooking creates a richer, deeper taste through the Maillard reaction. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but your dish may lack some complexity. For best results, brown meat in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. How much liquid should I use in a slow cooker recipe?
Slow cookers retain moisture, so you typically need less liquid than in stovetop or oven recipes. A general rule is to use about half the amount of liquid you would in a conventional recipe. For example, if a stovetop recipe calls for 2 cups of broth, use 1 cup in the slow cooker. Too much liquid can dilute flavors and make the dish watery. Always check the recipe for specific guidelines.
4. Can I cook frozen meat in a slow cooker?
It’s not recommended to cook frozen meat directly in a slow cooker. Frozen meat takes longer to reach a safe internal temperature, increasing the risk of bacterial growth. Thaw meat in the refrigerator overnight before adding it to the slow cooker. If you must use frozen meat, ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) throughout and consider using the high setting for part of the cooking time.
5. How do I adjust cooking times for different slow cooker sizes or settings?
Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker’s size, model, and heat settings. As a general guide:
– Low setting: 6–8 hours (for most recipes)
– High setting: 3–4 hours (about half the low time)
– Smaller slow cookers (1.5–3 quarts) may cook faster, while larger ones (6+ quarts) may take longer.
Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness, especially for poultry (165°F/74°C) and pork (145°F/63°C). If your slow cooker runs hot, reduce cooking time slightly.
