Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Chicken thighs: These are the main protein for the dish, providing a rich and tender meat that absorbs the flavors well.

Soy sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor and saltiness to the dish.

Ketchup: Provides a tangy and slightly sweet base for the sauce.

Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps to create a sticky glaze.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor.

Dried basil: Adds a hint of herbaceous flavor to balance the sweetness and umami.

To enhance the flavor of your chicken thighs, consider searing them in a hot pan with a bit of oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This step will caramelize the outside, adding a deeper, richer taste to the final dish. Additionally, make sure to evenly distribute the soy sauce, ketchup, honey, garlic, and basil mixture over the chicken to ensure every piece is well-coated and flavorful.

• chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Both cuts are dark meat and have similar cooking times and flavor profiles.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste and vinegar: Mix tomato paste with a bit of vinegar and a pinch of sugar to mimic the tangy sweetness of ketchup.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup has a similar sweetness and viscosity, making it a good alternative.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable; it provides a similar flavor, though slightly less pungent.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a similar herbaceous flavor and can be used in equal amounts.

• Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
• Transfer the cooled chicken thighs along with the sauce to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the chicken within 3-4 days. This keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.
• For longer storage, place the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When freezing, ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce to prevent freezer burn and maintain moisture.
• To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps retain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, or use a microwave, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• For a quick meal, shred the chicken and mix it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a delicious and easy dish.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the juiciness and flavor of the chicken.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until thoroughly heated. This method gives a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through. This is the quickest method but may not retain the texture as well as other methods.

• Slow Cooker Method: If you have a bit more time, you can reheat the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Place them back in the slow cooker, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist, and heat on low for 1-2 hours. This method ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through. This method gives a nice crispy finish while keeping the inside moist.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical appliance used for cooking food at a low temperature over a long period of time, perfect for making tender chicken thighs.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine ingredients like soy sauce, ketchup, honey, garlic, and basil.

• Measuring cups: Tools used to measure out the precise amounts of soy sauce, ketchup, and honey.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure out the dried basil.

• Garlic press: A tool used to mince the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Wooden spoon: A utensil used to mix the sauce ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Tongs: A tool used to place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker and to handle them when they are hot.

• Cutting board: A surface used to prepare and mince the garlic cloves.

• Knife: A tool used to mince the garlic cloves.

Prepare the sauce ahead: Mix the soy sauce, ketchup, honey, garlic, and basil the night before and store in the fridge.

Use a slow cooker liner: This makes cleanup a breeze, saving you time after cooking.

Pre-trim chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs before storing them in the fridge.

Double the recipe: Cook extra chicken thighs and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.

Quick garlic prep: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save time on chopping.