Discover easy honey mustard crockpot chicken recipes perfect for busy nights. Delicious, tender chicken with minimal prep. Try a comforting crockpot chicken recipe today.
Honey Mustard Crockpot Chicken Recipes
If you love simple, flavorful meals, this honey mustard crockpot chicken recipe is for you. It’s one of the easiest crockpot chicken recipes to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce makes the chicken tender and juicy while you focus on other tasks. Plus, everything goes right into the slow cooker with almost no prep. Read on to learn why you’ll love this dish and how to make it step-by-step.
Why You’ll Love It
This honey mustard crockpot chicken recipe combines sweet honey and tangy mustard for a rich flavor profile that works beautifully with tender chicken breasts. Cooking it in a crockpot means you set it and forget it—no constant checking or stirring. It’s also healthy, gluten-free, and can be adjusted to your taste easily. Serve it over rice, pasta, or with your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – can substitute thighs for extra juiciness
- 1/2 cup honey – use maple syrup as a natural alternative
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – spicy but smooth
- 1/4 cup whole grain mustard – adds texture and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh for best flavor
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – balances sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – optional for smoky warmth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- In a medium bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, garlic, and apple cider vinegar until blended.
- Pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken evenly.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Expert Tips
To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, avoid opening the crockpot lid during cooking as it lets heat escape. If you want thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and simmer the sauce on high without the lid for 10-15 minutes. For extra flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a hot pan for 2 minutes per side before adding to the crockpot. This adds a caramelized touch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Variations
- Vegan: Substitute chickpeas or tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your mustard brands are gluten-free.
- Dairy-free: The recipe contains no dairy, so it’s suitable as is.
- Low sugar: Reduce honey to 1/4 cup and add a splash of lemon juice for balance.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts for honey mustard crockpot chicken recipes?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- What can I serve with crockpot chicken recipes like this one?
- It’s great served over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside steamed vegetables and a green salad.
- How do I know when the chicken is done in the crockpot?
- The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be tender enough to shred easily.
- Can this honey mustard crockpot chicken recipe be doubled?
- Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken and sauce, and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Can I add vegetables to this crockpot chicken recipe?
- Absolutely. Add carrots, potatoes, or green beans at the start of cooking for a one-pot meal.
If you tried this honey mustard crockpot chicken recipe, please leave a comment, rate, and share it with friends who love easy dinner ideas!
For more delicious slow cooker meals, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners and Healthy Crockpot Recipes.