Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is a simple, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with a sweet and garlicky aroma. Tender chicken thighs cooked low and slow mingle with a colorful mix of vegetables, all coated in a lovely honey garlic sauce that’s just the right balance of sweet and savory. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel cozy without a lot of fuss.
I love how easy this slow cooker recipe is—just toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinner time. The chicken comes out super juicy, and the veggies soak up all those tasty flavors, making every bite satisfying. I usually add extra garlic because I’m a little obsessed, but the honey keeps things perfectly smooth and mellow.
My favorite way to enjoy this meal is over a bed of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to catch all the delicious sauce. It’s a great weeknight dinner when I want something warm and nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family, which is always a win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs because they stay juicy and develop great flavor while cooking slowly. You can swap for boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but keep an eye on cooking times to avoid drying out.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and balances the garlic and soy sauce. Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute if you need a different sweetener.
Soy Sauce: This gives a salty, umami boost. I like low sodium to control saltiness. Tamari or coconut aminos are good gluten-free alternatives.
Vegetables: Baby carrots, potatoes, and green beans hold up nicely in the slow cooker. If you want, try adding sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for variety.
Garlic & Thyme: Fresh garlic is key for bold flavor; minced garlic preserves well in the sauce. Thyme adds earthiness—fresh or dried both work fine.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Vegetables Cook Evenly?
Slow cooking gently cooks the chicken and veggies over hours, but to get the best texture, a few tips help:
- Sear the chicken first: This optional step makes the skin crispy and adds flavor by browning, plus it seals in juices.
- Layer veggies smartly: Put denser veggies like potatoes at the bottom where it’s warmer. Carrots and green beans go on top or around the sides so they don’t get mushy.
- Don’t overfill: Make sure your slow cooker isn’t packed too tightly; this helps heat circulate properly.
- Check seasoning: Taste the sauce near the end and adjust salt or honey if needed.
Following these tips will help you enjoy tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked veggies every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – This is the heart of the recipe, letting you cook chicken and veggies low and slow without fuss.
- Large skillet (optional) – Great if you want to sear chicken first for extra flavor and crispy skin.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for whisking together the honey garlic sauce easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Helps you get the sauce ingredients just right every time.
- Tongs – Handy for turning and removing the chicken without losing juices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option; cook on low to avoid drying out.
- Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini about halfway through cooking for extra color and texture.
- Stir in red pepper flakes with the sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to switch up the herb flavor—each adds a nice earthy touch.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Veggies:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb baby carrots (or large carrots cut into chunks)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- ½ lb fresh green beans, trimmed
For The Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 10-15 minutes to prep, including chopping and mixing. Then, you’ll cook the chicken and veggies in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. A great set-it-and-forget-it dish for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Optional: Sear the Chicken
If you like crispy skin and extra flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes. This step is optional but makes a nice difference.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Place the baby potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the carrots and green beans arranged around the sides. This layering helps everything cook evenly.
3. Add the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, dried thyme, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Pour the Sauce and Cook
Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once done, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or extra thyme if you like. Serve the chicken and veggies with the sauce spooned over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or on its own.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Using frozen chicken can increase cooking time and affect how evenly it cooks.
Can I Add Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Swap or add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that softer vegetables should be added later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking.
Is It Necessary to Sear the Chicken First?
No, searing is optional. It adds extra flavor and crispy skin but the dish will still be delicious without this step, especially when using the slow cooker.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over medium-low heat to keep the chicken tender.
