Honey Chicken Slow Cooker: Easy Recipe & Tips

Spicy Chicken Salad: Prepare to ignite your taste buds with a flavor explosion! Forget everything you thought you knew about chicken salad because this isn’t your grandma’s bland recipe. We’re taking a classic comfort food and kicking it up several notches with a fiery blend of spices and creamy textures that will leave you craving more.

Chicken salad, in its simplest form, has been a staple in American cuisine since the late 19th century. Originally a way to use leftover chicken, it quickly evolved from a thrifty dish to a beloved lunchtime favorite. But why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? This Spicy Chicken Salad recipe is a modern twist on a timeless classic, perfect for those who crave a little heat and a lot of flavor.

People adore chicken salad for its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal, ideal for sandwiches, crackers, or even lettuce wraps. But what truly sets this spicy version apart is the harmonious balance of creamy coolness and fiery spice. The tender chicken, combined with the crisp celery and the zesty kick of chili peppers, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. Get ready to experience chicken salad like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Honey: 1 cup
• Soy Sauce: ½ cup, low sodium
• Ketchup: ¼ cup
• Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or more, to taste)
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
• Water: 2 tablespoons
• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, for garnish
• Green Onions: 2, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Cooked Rice: For serving

Preparing the Chicken and Sauce:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. Cut your 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized, 1-inch cubes. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all that delicious honey sauce. Make sure to trim off any excess fat.
2. Now, in a medium-sized bowl, we’re going to whisk together the sauce ingredients. This is where the magic happens! Pour in 1 cup of honey. I like to use a good quality honey for the best flavor, but any honey you have on hand will work.
3. Next, add ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Using low-sodium soy sauce is important because it prevents the dish from becoming too salty. If you only have regular soy sauce, you can reduce the amount slightly.
4. Stir in ¼ cup of ketchup. This adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to the sauce, complementing the honey perfectly.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. This provides a subtle acidity that balances the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. Don’t skip this!
6. Now, for the aromatics! Mince 4 cloves of garlic and add them to the bowl. Freshly minced garlic is always best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (about 1 teaspoon).
7. Grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger and add it to the sauce. Fresh ginger adds a wonderful warmth and spice. If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger (about ½ teaspoon).
8. Drizzle in 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This adds a nutty and savory flavor that really elevates the dish. A little goes a long way!
9. If you like a little heat, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount to your liking, depending on how spicy you want it. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go.
10. Whisk all the sauce ingredients together until they are well combined. The sauce should be smooth and glossy.

Slow Cooking the Honey Chicken:

1. Place the cubed chicken into your slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Pour the honey sauce over the chicken, ensuring that all the chicken pieces are coated in the sauce. Use a spoon or spatula to gently toss the chicken and sauce together.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, prepare the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and stir well to combine. The sauce will start to thicken as it cooks.
6. Continue to cook for another 30 minutes, or until the sauce has reached your desired consistency. If the sauce is still too thin, you can cook it for a bit longer, uncovered, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. While the chicken is finishing up in the slow cooker, cook your rice according to package directions. I prefer to use jasmine rice or basmati rice, but any type of rice will work.
2. Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, it’s time to serve! Spoon the cooked rice into bowls and top with the honey chicken.
3. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions. These add a nice visual appeal and a pop of flavor.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! This honey chicken is also great reheated, so don’t worry about leftovers.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetables: You can add vegetables to the slow cooker along with the chicken. Some good options include broccoli florets, bell peppers, and snap peas. Add them during the last hour of cooking so they don’t get too mushy.
• Pineapple: For a tropical twist, add chunks of pineapple to the slow cooker. The pineapple will add sweetness and a tangy flavor that complements the honey and soy sauce.
• Spicy: If you want to make it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch slurry. Just make sure to whisk it well to avoid lumps.
• Serving Suggestions: This honey chicken is delicious served over rice, but you can also serve it over noodles or quinoa. It’s also great as a filling for lettuce wraps or as a topping for salads.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken and sauce to the slow cooker.
• Freezing: This honey chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Honey Chicken made in the slow cooker!

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s recap why this Honey Chicken Slow Cooker recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. We’re talking fall-off-the-bone tender chicken, bathed in a sweet and savory honey glaze that’s ridiculously easy to achieve. Forget complicated takeout orders or slaving over a hot stove after a long day. This recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort. Seriously, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting!

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! I’ve made this recipe countless times, and I’m always finding new ways to enjoy it. For a classic pairing, serve it over fluffy white rice with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans. The rice soaks up all that delicious honey sauce, and the veggies add a welcome touch of freshness. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, try serving it over quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist.

And speaking of twists, let’s talk variations! Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick. Craving something a little more citrusy? A squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice brightens up the flavors beautifully. You could even add a tablespoon of grated ginger for a warm, aromatic note.

For a complete meal, consider adding some vegetables directly to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Bell peppers, onions, and even chunks of pineapple work wonderfully and infuse the chicken with even more flavor. And if you’re looking for a lighter option, shred the chicken and use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tacos. Top with some crunchy slaw and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an unforgettable meal.

Another great serving suggestion is to use the shredded Honey Chicken Slow Cooker creation in sliders! Imagine mini Hawaiian rolls piled high with that sweet and savory chicken, maybe a little bit of coleslaw, and a drizzle of extra honey. Perfect for parties, game day, or just a fun weeknight dinner.

Honestly, the possibilities are endless! This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. I’ve even seen people use the sauce as a glaze for grilled chicken or salmon – talk about a flavor explosion!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this Honey Chicken Slow Cooker recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you come up with your own creative twist? Share your photos and comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions. I am always here to help.