Discover easy honey mustard crockpot chicken recipes that make dinner simple and flavorful. Try these crockpot chicken recipes for your next meal.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re looking for simple, flavorful crockpot chicken recipes, honey mustard crockpot chicken is a winner. It’s effortlessly tender, with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy thanks to the honey and mustard. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or meal prep since the crockpot does all the work while you focus on your day. Plus, it pairs well with so many sides, from steamed veggies to rice or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (substitute with thighs if you prefer dark meat)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (yellow mustard works but changes flavor slightly)
- 1/4 cup honey (maple syrup or agave as substitutes)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (white vinegar can be used but less sweet)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (any neutral oil is fine)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (garlic powder in a pinch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by placing your cleaned chicken breasts in the base of your crockpot.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re fully coated.
- Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender.
- Once cooked, carefully remove chicken and serve with your choice of sides.
For more easy recipes, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and Slow Cooker Recipes.
Expert Tips
To get the best flavor, resist lifting the lid during cooking, as this can extend cooking time. For perfectly tender chicken, aim for 4 hours on low; cooking longer risks drying out the meat. If using chicken thighs, reduce cook time by 30 minutes since they can become too soft. Leftovers taste great shredded and tossed into salads or wraps.
Storage
Store any leftover honey mustard crockpot chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove or microwave to retain moisture.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Ensure mustard and honey are gluten-free certified.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce honey or replace with a sugar-free sweetener.
- Vegan Substitute: Use firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken and cook with the same sauce.
FAQ
- Are honey mustard crockpot chicken recipes healthy?
- Yes, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients and lean chicken breast, making it a nutritious option for family meals.
- Can I use frozen chicken in these crockpot chicken recipes?
- It’s best to thaw chicken first for even cooking and food safety.
- How do I thicken the sauce?
- Remove the chicken after cooking and simmer the sauce on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- What sides pair well with honey mustard crockpot chicken?
- Try rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens for a balanced meal.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, just make sure your crockpot has enough space for even cooking.
If you tried this honey mustard crockpot chicken recipe, please leave a comment, rate it, and share with friends!