Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious meal that your family will adore, let me introduce you to my Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! This dish is one of those comforting recipes that makes weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. Just imagine coming home after a long day to the warm aroma of tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce—it’s pure bliss!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday night or a cozy family gathering, this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes needed to get everything ready, this dish fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The balance of sweetness from honey and the tanginess of dijon mustard creates a flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with veggies, or in wraps—the possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep it ahead of time and have a stress-free dinner waiting for you.
• Delicious Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day. Perfect for meal prepping!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our delightful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken. You probably already have most of these in your pantry!

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 Agent

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 Tbsp cold water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even turkey breast for a leaner option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers into the crockpot for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to give your sauce an exciting kick.
• Try different mustards: If you want to change up the flavor profile, switch out dijon mustard for whole grain or spicy brown mustard.

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure that your seasonings stick well. Then sprinkle salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika evenly over the chicken pieces. These spices create a flavorful base that enhances every bite.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. This step is crucial because combining these ingredients creates that irresistible sweet-tangy sauce that truly brings this dish to life.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Crockpot

Pour the honey mustard mixture over the seasoned chicken in your crockpot. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this ensures maximum flavor as it cooks slowly.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW heat for about 3 hours or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Checking at about 2 hours helps prevent overcooking and keeps that juicy texture we all love.

Step 5: Add Cream for Richness

Once cooked through, shred or pull apart your chicken into large chunks. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream for added richness and creaminess—this takes your sauce up a notch!

Step 6: Thicken if Desired

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this into your sauce and allow it to cook on low or warm until thickened—this could take about 30 minutes but will be worth it!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once you’ve reached your desired thickness, serve up your delicious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! Whether with rice, pasta, or fresh vegetables—enjoy every last bite!

This recipe is not only easy but also packed with flavor that everyone can enjoy together around the dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This recipe is super simple, but these tips will help you elevate your dish even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic can intensify the flavor of your sauce, making each bite burst with deliciousness.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the honey slightly. This allows the tanginess of the mustard to shine through more.
• Experiment with Mustard: Try using different types of mustard like whole grain or spicy brown for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers before cooking for added nutrients and color. They will soak up all those savory flavors!
• Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have any leftovers, shred the chicken and use it in salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a quick lunch option.

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Serving this dish can be as exciting as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: These not only add crunch but also enhance the dish’s presentation with their delicate look.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie is not just healthy; its mild flavor complements the honey mustard sauce perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting base that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes beautifully with the honey mustard flavors while providing a nutritious side.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will surely impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create delicious, easy dinners that save time during your busy week. Preparing this dish ahead of time means you can enjoy the wonderful flavors without the fuss on a hectic evening.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chicken is cooled completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken:

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

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to stay moist and tender during the cooking process, adding even more flavor to your dish.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken on low?

Cooking on low typically takes about 3 hours. It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.

Can I add vegetables to my Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans into the crockpot with the chicken. This will create a complete meal in one pot!

What can I serve with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s also a comforting meal that brings family and friends together. Enjoy experimenting with variations and serving options—you’re sure to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!