Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that can easily become a family favorite. With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of honey and mustard creates a sweet and tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with tender chicken. Plus, you can serve it in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe requires only 10 minutes of hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of honey and Dijon mustard creates a unique taste that is both sweet and savory.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or with vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a crockpot means less mess and fewer dishes to wash afterward.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Provides even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining sauces without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing ingredients like honey and mustard.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 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
• ¼ c honey
• ¼ c dijon mustard
• 2 Tbsp butter (melted)
• 2-3 garlic cloves (minced)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• optional: 2 Tbsp corn starch and 4 Tbsp cold water

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika over top, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Close the lid of your slow cooker and cook on LOW heat for about 3 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Check at about 2 hours to monitor progress.

Step 4: Shred or Chunk the Chicken

Once cooked, pull apart the chicken into large chunks or completely shred it as desired. About 30 minutes before serving, add the heavy cream to stir into the sauce.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the cold water and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce in your slow cooker. Allow it to heat on warm or low setting for about 30 minutes to thicken further.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Once your sauce has thickened to your liking, serve hot over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables! Enjoy your delicious homemade Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over steamed rice for a hearty meal. The sauce blends beautifully with the rice, soaking in all the flavors.

On a Salad

• Shred the chicken and toss it on a fresh salad. The honey mustard sauce adds a delightful zest to your greens.

In Wraps

• Use tortillas or lettuce leaves to create wraps. This makes for an easy and tasty lunch option that’s both filling and healthy.

With Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables. This adds color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the dish.

As Sandwiches

• Shred the chicken and pile it onto buns for delicious sandwiches. Add some crunchy veggies for extra texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Perfecting your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is simple with a few tips in mind. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish.

• Marinate overnight – For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard mixture overnight before cooking.
• Use fresh herbs – Fresh oregano or thyme can elevate the taste compared to dried versions.
• Check doneness – Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
• Adjust sweetness – Modify the amount of honey according to your taste preference for sweetness.
• Add veggies – Toss in some carrots or potatoes during cooking for added nutrition and heartiness.
• Use low-sodium broth – If you want less sodium, opt for low-sodium broth instead of regular broth when adding liquid.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that work well together:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the sauce nicely.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with honey mustard flavors.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw brings texture and a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the dish.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is an easy side that everyone loves, adding sweetness and crunch.
7. Baked Beans – Savory baked beans add protein and are a hearty complement to this flavorful chicken dish.
8. Mixed Green Salad – A simple mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a light, crisp contrast to your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken possible. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not drying the chicken properly: If the chicken is wet, it won’t sear properly. Always pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken can lead to bland results. Make sure to sprinkle salt, pepper, and herbs generously on both sides.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
• Not allowing time for thickening: Rushing the sauce thickening process can lead to a watery sauce. Be patient and allow enough time for the cornstarch mixture to work its magic.
• Neglecting customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe may limit flavor. Feel free to add vegetables or spices that you enjoy for a personal touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers for best results.

Freezing Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish in short increments, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQs about Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken that might help you:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well and will provide a slightly richer flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free and substitute cornstarch if needed.

What can I serve with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding veggies like carrots or broccoli can enhance flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is an easy and delicious option for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients while still delivering delightful flavors. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!