Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal that brings the family together, look no further than this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a rich, tangy flavor that will make your taste buds sing! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite in my home.

This recipe is versatile enough for family gatherings or a cozy dinner just for two. The beauty of using a crock pot means you can set it and forget it while you go about your day. When dinnertime arrives, you’ll be greeted with tender chicken bathed in a delightful honey mustard sauce that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: You can whip this up in just 10 minutes! Perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors. It’s sure to please even picky eaters!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with veggies, or in wraps—the possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Just set your crock pot in the morning and come home to a delicious meal waiting for you.
• Deliciously Comforting: The combination of honey and mustard creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create a meal that’s not only easy but incredibly satisfying.

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

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 Tbsp cold water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness or try turkey for a leaner option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or bell peppers right before cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the flavor: Experiment with different mustards—like whole grain or spicy—for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick!

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick better. Then, sprinkle the salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika evenly over the top of the chicken pieces. These spices will infuse wonderful flavors into the meat as it cooks.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture is what gives your chicken its delicious glaze! Pour this sauce over the seasoned chicken to ensure every piece gets coated well.

Step 3: Set Up Your Crock Pot

Close your crock pot lid securely and cook on LOW heat for about 3 hours or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you can check in at around 2 hours, that would be great! You want your chicken perfectly cooked—tender but not overdone.

Step 4: Shred and Cream It Up

Once your chicken is cooked through, pull it apart into large chunks or shred it completely with forks. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream into the sauce for richness. This step adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with the honey mustard flavors.

Step 5: Thicken That Sauce

To thicken your sauce if desired, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce about half an hour before serving; letting it heat on warm or low setting will help achieve that perfect consistency.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once you’ve reached your desired thickness for the sauce, it’s time to serve! Whether it’s over rice or alongside roasted veggies, this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This recipe is super simple, but a few tips can take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic!

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time during the week, consider prepping the chicken and sauce the night before. Just store them in the fridge and pop everything into the crockpot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic instead of powdered garlic. Fresh garlic has a more vibrant flavor that will enhance your dish and make it even more delicious.

• Adjust Sweetness: Not everyone loves a sweet dish. Feel free to adjust the amount of honey according to your taste preferences. You can also substitute half of it with maple syrup for a unique twist!

• Mix Up the Mustard: While Dijon mustard is recommended, you can experiment with whole grain mustard or honey mustard for added texture and flavor variety.

• Thickening Sauce Variations: If you prefer a creamier sauce without cornstarch, try blending some cashews or using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. This adds richness while keeping it dairy-free!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Presenting your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest gives a delightful zing that balances out the sweetness of the honey mustard sauce.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but is also packed with nutrients. The slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the chicken beautifully.

• Brown Rice: This nutty grain is an excellent base for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Plus, it’s a healthy whole grain option that keeps you satisfied.

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with honey mustard flavors, creating a harmonious plate that’s both filling and nutritious.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers will add crunch and freshness to your meal, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal for your family! Each serving is sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is not only a delightful dinner option but also perfect for meal prep! Its wonderful flavor makes it ideal for leftovers, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken and sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• First, let the chicken cool down completely.
• Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative.

How long should 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. If you can check it at around 2 hours, that’s even better!

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like carrots or potatoes. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and layer them at the bottom of the crockpot before adding the chicken.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this scrumptious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken as much as my family does! It’s such a comforting dish that’s easy enough for busy weeknights and packed with flavor that everyone will love. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a new favorite at your dinner table!