Name: Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for heat); 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); ½ cup BBQ sauce (smoky flavor preferred); ½ cup honey; ¼ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 2 tbsp water (for cornstarch slurry); 4 cloves garlic, minced

This Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken is a mouthwatering, fuss-free dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, infusing every bite with irresistible taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving a delicious, low-effort meal. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the chicken to soak up the rich, sticky honey garlic BBQ sauce while you go about your day. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and smoky BBQ flavors creates a harmonious balance that appeals to all palates. It’s versatile enough for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, and the minimal cleanup makes it a practical choice. Plus, the tender, fall-apart chicken will have everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Brown the Chicken: For extra flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before cooking and adjust the honey or brown sugar to your preference.
Thicken the Sauce: After cooking, simmer the sauce on the stovetop with a cornstarch slurry for a thicker glaze.
Use a Liner: Place a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup, especially with the sticky sauce.
Check Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Garnish Generously: Fresh green onions or sesame seeds add a pop of color and texture.

Yield: Serves 6

Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken: tender thighs slow-cooked in a sweet, tangy, smoky sauce for an easy, flavorful meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
½ cup BBQ sauce (smoky flavor preferred)
½ cup honey
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (for cornstarch slurry)
4 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and sriracha. The aroma of garlic and sweet honey will get you excited for what’s to come!
Trim the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim excess fat for a cleaner dish.
Optional Searing: For deeper flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
Layer in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, spreading them evenly to ensure they soak up the sauce.
Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Use a spoon to spread it evenly.
Set and Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and juicy.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): Transfer the sauce to a saucepan, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry, and stir it in. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Shred or Serve Whole: Shred the chicken with two forks for sandwiches or serve whole for a plated meal, coated in sauce.
Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for a vibrant finish, then serve with rice, veggies, or rolls!

Notes

Adjust sriracha to taste for kid-friendly or spice-lover versions.
If using bone-in thighs, increase cooking time by 1 hour on low.
For a glossy presentation, broil shredded chicken with sauce for 2-3 minutes after cooking.
Pair with mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 430Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 184mgSodium 966mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 1gSugar 39gProtein 38g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are ideal for tenderness, but bone-in works too; adjust cooking time slightly.
Honey: Provides natural sweetness and stickiness; use raw honey for a deeper flavor.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce balances saltiness without overpowering the dish.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a high-quality, smoky BBQ sauce for authentic flavor; avoid overly sweet varieties.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best punch; pre-minced can work in a pinch.
Brown Sugar: Enhances the caramelized, sticky texture; substitute with maple syrup for a twist.
Sriracha: Adds a mild kick; adjust to control spice levels for sensitive palates.
Cornstarch: Optional for thickening the sauce post-cooking for a glossy finish.

Variations and Substitutions

For a spicy twist, increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or breasts, though breasts may dry out slightly, so monitor cooking time. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you’re avoiding refined sugars, replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or additional honey. For a smokier profile, mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke. Vegetarians can try this sauce with tofu or jackfruit, slow-cooked for 4-5 hours. For a low-carb option, use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and reduce honey.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so stir well before serving.