Introduction:
If you’re looking for a simple, foolproof recipe that delivers tender, juicy chicken with a burst of flavor, look no further than this slow cooker chicken thighs recipe. With just three key ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both sweet and savory, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, turning raw chicken thighs into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. Whether you’re serving it with rice, vegetables, or a side of bread, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
4-6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Since we’re using bone-in, skinless thighs, there’s no need to worry about removing skin, as it won’t be part of the final dish.
Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and soy sauce. This simple sauce provides the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness that will flavor the chicken as it cooks.
Place Chicken in Slow Cooker:
Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you may need to arrange them in batches.
Pour the Sauce:
Drizzle the honey-soy mixture over the chicken thighs. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated, though it’s fine if the sauce doesn’t cover every inch completely. The chicken will release juices as it cooks, creating a flavorful broth.
Slow Cook:
Set your slow cooker to low and cook the chicken for 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but slow cooking on low yields the most tender results. The chicken should be fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the sauce will have reduced into a flavorful glaze.
Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. If desired, you can thicken the sauce by turning the slow cooker to high and letting it reduce for an additional 10-15 minutes. Serve the chicken with the sauce poured over it, and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serve with Sides: This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The sauce can also be served over the rice or potatoes for added flavor.
Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add sliced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the slow cooker along with the chicken. These will cook in the sauce, adding extra flavor and nutrition.
Variants:
Spicy Honey Soy Chicken: For a bit of heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha sauce to the honey-soy mixture. This will balance the sweetness with a spicy kick.
Garlic Honey Soy Chicken: Add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic to the honey-soy sauce for a deeper, more savory flavor. Garlic pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey and the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Citrus Infused Chicken: Add the zest and juice of 1 orange or lemon to the sauce to introduce a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness and savory notes of the honey and soy sauce.
Ginger Soy Chicken: Grate 1-inch piece of fresh ginger and add it to the sauce for an aromatic, slightly spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the honey and soy.
FAQ:
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