Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preparing your slow cooker with a light coating of cooking spray or slow cooker liner.
- Mix the sauce by whisking together honey, soy sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic in a bowl until well combined.
- Add chicken to the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over the top, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours, until chicken easily shreds with a fork. Cooking time depends on thickness of chicken pieces.
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker and place on a cutting board. Let rest for 2-3 minutes, then shred with two forks.
- Thicken the sauce by whisking cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this slurry into the cooking liquid remaining in the slow cooker.
- Cook on high for 10-15 minutes more, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the thickened sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions:
For gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
For vegan: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu or cauliflower florets
Different vinegars: Balsamic vinegar creates a surprisingly delicious variation
No fresh ginger: Use 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger powder
Spice level: Add 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat
Cooking Tips:
Beginner tip: Don't lift the lid during cooking - each peek adds 15-20 minutes to cook time
Advanced technique: For extra flavor, brown chicken thighs in a skillet before adding to slow cooker, though this step is optional
Sauce consistency: If sauce becomes too thick, thin with a tablespoon of chicken broth or water
Storage & Meal Prep:
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days
Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers or bags
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out
Meal prep tip: Cook a double batch and portion into containers with rice and vegetables for grab-and-go lunches
Scaling Instructions:
To double the recipe: Use a larger 8-quart slow cooker and increase cooking time by 30-60 minutes
To halve the recipe: Perfect for a 4-quart slow cooker, reduce cooking time by 30-45 minutes
Individual portions: This recipe serves 4-6 people generously, providing approximately 6-8 ounces of chicken per person
Nutritional Benefits:
This nutritious meal provides approximately 35 grams of high-quality protein per serving, supporting muscle growth and keeping you full for hours. Chicken thighs contain 26 grams of protein and important minerals like iron and zinc. Raw honey contains powerful antioxidants including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help reduce inflammation. The garlic provides natural antimicrobial properties and immune system support.
This nutritious meal provides approximately 35 grams of high-quality protein per serving, supporting muscle growth and keeping you full for hours. Chicken thighs contain 26 grams of protein and important minerals like iron and zinc. Raw honey contains powerful antioxidants including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help reduce inflammation. The garlic provides natural antimicrobial properties and immune system support.