This Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli is a tasty one-pot meal that’s super easy to make! The chicken becomes tender and juicy while simmering in a sweet and tangy sauce.
Plus, who can resist broccoli soaked in that delicious honey garlic goodness? I love to serve it over rice for a complete meal that feels special but takes hardly any effort. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my go-to for this dish. They stay juicy and tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, breasts work too. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Honey: While honey gives a sweet flavor, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different twist. Just note that the sweetness level may vary, so taste as you go!
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is best to keep things balanced. If you’re gluten-free, you can use tamari instead. For a unique taste, coconut aminos are a great alternative, but they’ll be a bit sweeter.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and ginger add a fantastic depth of flavor. If fresh isn’t available, use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder and ginger powder. But fresh is definitely better!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal, but frozen florets can also be used if you’re short on time. Just add them to the pot for the last 10 minutes to cook through.
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Tender?
Getting tender chicken in a crock pot is all about cooking it at the right temperature for the right time. I recommend keeping the pot on low heat for optimal results. This low and slow approach allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fall-apart tender.
- Always coat the chicken in the sauce mixture; it helps with flavor and moisture.
- Shred the chicken after most of the cooking time—this lets it soak up more sauce.
- Don’t rush the thickening step! The cornstarch slurry will make the sauce glossy and perfect, so give it that additional time.
How to Make Crock Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3-4 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger (optional)
For Thickening:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Serving:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 6-7 hours to cook on low heat (or 3-4 hours on high). Just a little patience, and you’ll have a flavorful meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In your crock pot, mix together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and minced ginger (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well combined — this will be the tasty sauce for your chicken!
2. Add the Chicken:
Next, place the boneless chicken thighs or breasts into the sauce mixture. Make sure each piece is nicely coated. Now, close the lid on the crock pot and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-7 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, set it to high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
3. Shred the Chicken:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take the chicken out of the crock pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. This will help the chicken soak up more of the yummy sauce.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the crock pot. Give it a good mix and let it cook for another 30 minutes. This will thicken the sauce nicely!
5. Prepare the Broccoli:
While the sauce thickens, it’s time to cook the broccoli. You can either steam or blanch the broccoli florets in hot water for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender yet still bright green!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your meal! Serve the honey garlic chicken over a bed of warm cooked brown rice, and place the broccoli on the side. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkling of sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts in place of thighs! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so be sure to check for doneness a bit earlier, especially if you’re cooking on high heat. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, consider using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative. They will provide a similar flavor, but might slightly alter the overall sweetness of the dish, so adjust the honey if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; add firmer veggies earlier and more delicate ones like spinach towards the end of cooking to keep their bright color and nutrients.
