Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a delicious and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a flavorful meal that the entire family will love. The combination of honey and mustard creates a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken. Whether you’re serving it over rice, with veggies, or in wraps, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep work, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Sauce: The blend of honey and mustard creates a rich, tangy sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over rice, in sandwiches, or with a side of vegetables; the possibilities are endless!
• Family-Friendly Meal: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common ingredients that you likely already have at home, it’s easy to whip up anytime.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows you to cook your chicken slowly, resulting in tender meat infused with flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and seasonings before pouring them over the chicken.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by thoroughly mixing honey, mustard, garlic, and butter together.

Ingredients

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 Agents

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 T 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, covering the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

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

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Close the slow cooker lid and cook on LOW heat for about 3 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Check around 2 hours if possible to ensure perfect doneness.

Step 4: Shred or Chunk the Chicken

Once cooked, pull apart the chicken into large chunks or shred it completely as per your preference. About 30 minutes before serving time, add heavy cream to the sauce and stir well.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

If desired, whisk together cornstarch and cold water 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 until thickened to your liking.

Step 6: Serve!

Once your sauce has reached its desired thickness, serve your delicious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken hot! Enjoy it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to suit your preferences. From hearty meals to light options, here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the delicious honey mustard sauce, making each bite flavorful.

In a Wrap

• Use a tortilla wrap for a quick lunch option. Add fresh greens and sliced veggies for crunch, then drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor.

With Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with steamed or roasted vegetables. Seasonal veggies like broccoli or green beans complement the dish beautifully.

On a Salad

• Shred the chicken and toss it onto a mixed greens salad. Add nuts, seeds, or cheese for extra texture, and drizzle with your favorite dressing.

As Sliders

• Create mini sliders using small buns. Layer the chicken with pickles and coleslaw for a fun twist on traditional sliders at your next gathering.

With Quinoa

• Serve the honey mustard chicken over quinoa for a protein-packed option. Quinoa’s nutty flavor pairs well with the sweetness of the dish.

How to Perfect Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, follow these helpful tips that ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey will significantly enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to modify spices like oregano or paprika according to your preference. This customization allows you to make it uniquely yours.
• Check Temperature: Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal tenderness.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture, making it juicier when served.
• Thicken Sauce Wisely: If you want a thicker sauce, adjust cornstarch gradually. This prevents clumping and ensures smoothness in texture.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the chicken.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with savory sauces.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the honey mustard flavor of the chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast, adding texture and brightness to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A cold quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy, grain-based option to round out your meal.
6. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs alongside your chicken for a light yet satisfying option.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds an elegant touch while being simple to prepare.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is always a crowd-pleaser and brings seasonal freshness to any dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always make sure to sprinkle salt, pepper, and herbs evenly over the chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Check your chicken at around 2 hours for doneness, ensuring it reaches 165°F.
• Not whisking the sauce: If you don’t whisk the honey and mustard mixture well, it may not blend properly with the chicken. Take a moment to mix until smooth for best results.
• Ignoring thickness adjustments: Not thickening the sauce can lead to a watery dish. If desired, use cornstarch mixed with cold water to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
• Forgetting to add cream: Adding cream too late can affect the dish’s richness. Stir in the heavy cream about 30 minutes before serving for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a simple slow-cooked dish made with chicken breasts, honey, dijon mustard, garlic, and spices. It’s flavorful and easy to prepare.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey, beef, or lamb if you prefer different meats. Adjust cooking times as needed based on meat type.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less honey or opt for sugar-free mustard. Additionally, using skinless chicken breast decreases fat content.

What should I serve with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement its flavors!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various sides or adjust ingredients based on your family’s preferences. Enjoy this easy weeknight meal that everyone will love!