Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that your whole family will adore, look no further than this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just ten minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to work its magic.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of sweet and tangy flavors, thanks to the honey and Dijon mustard. It’s versatile enough for family gatherings or a cozy night in, making it a staple in my household. I just know you’ll fall in love with it as much as I have!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just ten minutes of prep time, you can get back to your day while the crockpot does all the work.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and tangy sauce appeals to kids and adults alike, making mealtime stress-free.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, pasta, or with a side of veggies—it’s adaptable to fit any meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prepping! You can even double the recipe for leftovers throughout the week.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in one pot means fewer dishes to wash afterward—always a win!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lb chicken breast (about 4, 6 oz. pieces) (chicken thighs will work)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ tsp salt

For the Sauce

• ¼ c honey
• ¼ c dijon mustard
• 2 Tbsp butter (melted)
• 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Optional Thickening Agent

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 T cold water

Variations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is how flexible it is! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the Protein: Try using bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra flavor.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers during cooking for a colorful twist.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your sauce.
• Change the Creaminess: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still tastes fantastic.

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because it helps the seasonings stick better. Sprinkle salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika over top, covering the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture is where all that delicious flavor comes from! Pour it over the chicken so it gets nicely coated.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Close your crockpot lid and set it on LOW heat for about three hours. Check at around two hours if possible; this way, you ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F without drying out.

Step 4: Shred and Stir

Once cooked through, pull apart the chicken into large chunks or shred it completely. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in cream to add richness to your sauce.

Step 5: Thicken It Up

For a thicker sauce, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce in your crockpot and let it heat on warm or low setting for about 30 minutes. It will thicken beautifully as it cooks!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your sauce reaches your desired thickness, serve up this comforting dish! I love pairing it with rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

A few simple tips can help you achieve the perfect Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken every time!

• Pat the chicken dry: This helps the seasonings stick better and allows for a more flavorful crust when cooking.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced alternatives, giving your dish that homemade touch.
• Monitor cooking time: Check the chicken at about 2 hours to avoid overcooking. Every crockpot is different, and this ensures your chicken stays juicy.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more honey. It’s easy to customize according to your family’s taste!
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change up the flavor profile. This keeps things exciting and tailored to your palate.

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Serving your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken doesn’t have to be complicated; a few thoughtful touches can elevate it into a delightful meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
• Sliced green onions: These offer a mild crunch and extra flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey mustard glaze.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant vegetable not only adds color but also provides a nutritious balance to the meal without overpowering it.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers gives a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish while adding extra nutrients.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes complements the honey mustard flavors, creating a harmonious blend of tastes on your plate.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need for an inviting family dinner that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for meal prep! It stores wonderfully, making it a great choice for busy weeks when you want to have delicious meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cool down completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish at medium power until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They will be tender and juicy after slow cooking, just like the chicken breasts.

How long do I cook Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken on low?

Cook your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken on low for about 3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s always good to check after around 2 hours!

Can I use other types of mustard in this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different mustards! While dijon mustard provides a nice tanginess, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can also be great alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate! With its easy preparation and delightful flavor, it’s bound to become a weeknight favorite. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as my family does. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations; I’m excited for you to dive into this delicious recipe!