Print

Easy Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe with Brown Rice for Perfect Weeknight Dinners

easy crockpot honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender honey garlic chicken thighs cooked with brown rice, perfect for busy weeknights. The sticky-sweet glaze and wholesome brown rice make it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup honey (120 ml)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (60 ml) or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (12 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (5 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (5 ml)
  • 1 cup long-grain brown rice (190 g), rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water (360 ml)
  • Green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Sesame oil (optional, for drizzling at the end)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and grated ginger until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  3. Pour the rinsed rice into the bottom of the crockpot. Add chicken broth or water and stir gently to even out the rice.
  4. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on top of the rice.
  5. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and rice is cooked but not mushy.
  7. About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, check the liquid level and add a splash more broth or water if needed to keep the rice moist. Stir gently if desired, being careful not to break up the chicken.
  8. Once done, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the dish. Drizzle a little sesame oil if using.
  9. Serve hot, spooning chicken and rice with the sticky honey garlic sauce onto plates.

Notes

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for best results; rinsing rice prevents clumping; keep lid closed during cooking to maintain heat; add extra broth if rice looks dry near end; can add a splash of sesame oil at the end for aroma; can substitute chicken breasts but watch cooking time; recipe can be made in Instant Pot using sauté and pressure cook functions; leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, honey garlic chicken, slow cooker recipe, brown rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/easy-crockpot-honey-garlic-chicken-thighs-recipe-with-brown-rice-for-perfect-weeknight-dinners/