Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for a dinner that comes together effortlessly and pleases the whole family, you’ve found it with this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! This recipe is one of my favorites because it captures that perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors while being incredibly easy to prepare. With just ten minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice, alongside some roasted vegetables, or even in a wrap for a quick lunch the next day. Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only ten minutes of active work, dinner can be on the table without hassle.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, pasta, or veggies for an easy meal that fits any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just portion out leftovers for quick lunches!
• Delicious Flavor: The honey mustard sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, you’ll need simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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)
• ¼ cup heavy cream

Optional Thickening

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 Tbsp cold water

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to adapt it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get creative with your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Change the sweetness: Try maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for heat!

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the seasonings stick better! Sprinkle the salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika over the chicken evenly. This spice blend enhances the chicken’s flavor beautifully as it cooks.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. This combination creates that delicious sweet and tangy sauce we all love! Pour this mixture over your seasoned chicken in the crockpot.

Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow

Close your crockpot lid and set it to cook on LOW heat for about three hours. The goal here is to let those flavors meld together while ensuring your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If time allows, check in after two hours; this way you can ensure everything is cooking perfectly!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked through, pull apart your chicken into large chunks or shred completely with two forks. About thirty minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness in your sauce—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 5: Thicken Your Sauce (Optional)

If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth and stir it into your sauce. Allow it to heat on low or warm setting for about thirty minutes until you’ve reached your desired thickness.

Step 6: Serve!

Once everything looks perfect and deliciously thickened to your liking, serve up your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! Enjoy every mouthful with family or friends—you won’t regret making this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some pro tips to elevate your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. The fresher the ingredients, the more delicious your meal will be!

• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of honey. You can also substitute it with maple syrup for a unique twist that still captures that sweetness.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs or spices like thyme or rosemary. These can introduce new flavors and make the dish even more delightful.

• Cook Low and Slow: For tender chicken that falls apart easily, cook on low heat. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring juicy chicken.

• Make it Ahead of Time: Prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Just toss it into the crockpot in the morning for an effortless dinner when you come home!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile! You can present it in various ways to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Green Onions: A sprinkle of these gives a mild onion flavor and adds visual appeal.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with honey mustard.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable offers a nutritious balance to your creamy chicken dish, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with vegetables provides a hearty yet healthy side that complements the sauce beautifully.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for soaking up all that delicious honey mustard sauce!
• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread can be a fantastic accompaniment, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce on your plate.

Now you’re all set to create an incredible meal with this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! Enjoy every bite as you share this comforting dish with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, separate the chicken from the sauce to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on low heat in a saucepan on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe and provide a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times slightly if needed.

How long does Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken take to cook?

This dish takes about 3 hours on LOW heat to ensure the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Check at 2 hours for optimal timing.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Ensure that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free and you can enjoy this recipe worry-free.

What sides go well with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy and satisfaction while making this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family together around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!