Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that your whole family will love, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is one of my all-time favorites. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set this dish to cook and go about your day, knowing a warm, comforting meal awaits you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even family gatherings when you want something easy but flavorful.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can serve it over rice, with veggies on the side, or even in a sandwich. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, the rich flavors of honey and mustard combined with tender chicken will surely make everyone at the table smile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a hit every time!
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, pasta, or even in wraps. You can easily adapt it to suit any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Simply set it in the crockpot in the morning, and it will be ready by dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, simplicity is key! You’ll find that these wholesome ingredients are easy to keep on hand. Let’s gather what we 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)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Optional Thickener

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 Tbsp cold water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken breasts, try using chicken thighs for a juicier texture or even turkey breast for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.
• Make it zesty: For a citrus twist, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice before serving!

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel. This step helps ensure that your seasonings stick well! Sprinkle salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika over top of the chicken pieces evenly.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture is what brings everything together with its delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour that delicious honey mustard mixture over your seasoned chicken in the crockpot. Make sure to cover as much of the chicken as possible so every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Close your crockpot lid and cook on LOW heat for about 3 hours or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s always good practice to check at around 2 hours just to be sure!

Step 5: Add Cream for Richness

Once your chicken is fully cooked, pull it apart into large chunks or shred it completely based on your preference. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream into the sauce for that creamy richness we all love.

Step 6: Thicken Your Sauce (Optional)

If you’d like a thicker sauce, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir this into your sauce and let it cook on warm or low for about another 30 minutes. The longer it cooks after adding this mix, the thicker it will get!

Final Step: Serve & Enjoy!

Once everything has come together nicely and reached your desired thickness, it’s time to serve! Enjoy this wonderful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken with whatever sides you love best!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Cooking can be a breeze with a few helpful tips, ensuring your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality honey can significantly enhance the flavor of your chicken. They add depth and richness that dried or processed alternatives might lack.
• Check the chicken temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. This helps avoid undercooked chicken that can lead to food safety issues.
• Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey based on your taste preference. If you prefer a tangier dish, reduce the honey slightly without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add other herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. These can elevate the flavor profile and make it your own!
• Make it a meal prep option: This recipe stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook in larger batches and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color, and its mild flavor pairs wonderfully with honey mustard.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic create a comforting side that balances the tangy notes of the chicken.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural sugars when cooked, making them an ideal side that enhances the overall sweetness of the meal.

With these serving suggestions in mind, your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is sure to be a delightful centerpiece for any dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and manage your leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the sauce is mixed well with the chicken before sealing.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in the microwave on medium power until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken:

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

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They remain juicy and flavorful during cooking, making them a great alternative.

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

Cook on LOW for about 3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Always check around the 2-hour mark for best results.

Can I use other types of mustard in this recipe?

Yes! While Dijon mustard gives a nice tang, you can substitute with yellow mustard or even honey garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it in wraps or sandwiches for a fun twist!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it easy to enjoy throughout your busy week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to bring this delightful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken into your kitchen! It’s such a simple yet satisfying dish that promises to bring smiles around your dinner table. Enjoy making it and feel free to get creative with sides or variations! Happy cooking!