Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

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There’s something comforting about the aroma of a home-cooked meal simmering away in a slow cooker, especially when it involves tender chicken and flavorful vegetables. This Slow Cooker Sweet Garlic Chicken with Vegetables is a dish that perfectly marries ease and taste. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. The chicken thighs cook until they’re tender, soaking up the rich flavors of a sweet and garlicky sauce. Paired with a medley of vegetables like baby potatoes, carrots, and green beans, this dish not only satisfies but also provides a balanced and nutritious meal. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with minimal prep and a dinner that’s ready when you are. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients (4 servings):

Sweet Garlic Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Chicken and Vegetables:

  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 pound baby red potatoes
  • 1 pound peeled carrots
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 1 pound trimmed green beans
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Thickening:

  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 3 tsp water

Instructions:

  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey, ketchup, minced garlic, soy sauce, and dried oregano. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
  2. In a 4-6 quart slow cooker, arrange the chicken thighs evenly. Add the chopped onions, baby potatoes, and carrots around the chicken.
  3. Pour the sweet garlic sauce over the chicken and vegetables, making sure everything is well coated.
  4. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-3 1/2 hours.
  5. About 20 minutes before the cooking time ends, add the trimmed green beans to the slow cooker. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and stir it into the slow cooker.
  6. Re-cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  7. To serve, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken and vegetables to serving plates. If you like, you can broil the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the skin. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the dish and garnish with chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information & Dietary Concerns:

This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and offers a good balance of vitamins and fiber from the mixed vegetables. The honey adds natural sweetness, while the soy sauce provides a savory depth without overpowering the dish. For those watching their sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. The meal is naturally gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free soy sauce. With a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, it’s a well-rounded meal that can fit into various dietary needs.

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