This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken is a winner for busy days! Juicy chicken swims in a sweet and tangy sauce of honey and mustard. Just toss it in and let the cooker do the magic!
What’s better than a meal that cooks itself? My family loves the flavor, and I love how easy it is. Serve it over rice or with veggies, and you’ve got a tasty dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main event here for a juicy dish. You can swap them out for thighs if you prefer dark meat; they won’t dry out as easily.
Honey: Honey gives a beautiful sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, try agave syrup or maple syrup instead. Both will work well!
Mustards: Dijon and whole grain mustards offer a nice balance of flavor. If Dijon isn’t available, yellow mustard can work; just remember it’s less complex in flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for that aromatic kick, but jarred minced garlic can be a time-saver. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can skip it!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness. You can use any vinegar you have on hand, like white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to achieving tender chicken in a slow cooker is cooking it at the right heat setting for the right amount of time. Here are some tips to help your chicken shine:
- Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices before laying them in the slow cooker.
- Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
- Avoid opening the lid while it’s cooking, as this can let heat escape and affect cooking time.
- For a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry after cooking. Stir it into a saucepan for a nice, glossy finish.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have chicken that’s not only tender but bursting with flavor!
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s a great option because you can set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. This ensures that the base flavors penetrate the chicken as it cooks.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar (if using), and chicken broth. This mixture will become the delicious sauce that coats the chicken.
3. Place Chicken in Slow Cooker:
Lay the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour the prepared honey mustard sauce over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated. This is what will make your chicken so flavorful!
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. Choose the low setting for 4-6 hours or the high setting for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink inside and is tender.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, carefully transfer the sauce from the slow cooker to a small saucepan after cooking. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens up nicely.
7. Serve:
After thickening, pour the sauce back over the chicken in the slow cooker or serve it separately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
8. Enjoy:
Serve the honey mustard chicken hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors!
This dish is sure to become a family favorite for its ease and flavor. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and are more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. Just adjust the cooking time to about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Honey?
No problem! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, store any leftover honey mustard chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, making sure to enjoy it warm!
