Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious meal that the whole family will adore, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is one of those recipes that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough for family gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients and about 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can serve it over rice, alongside vegetables, or even on a bed of greens for a lighter option. Whether you’re rushing home from work or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes to get everything ready, you can enjoy your evening without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet and tangy taste of honey mustard appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or even in wraps—this recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic while you go about your day.
• Deliciously Comforting: The rich flavors combined with tender chicken make this dish feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. They come together beautifully in the crockpot to create a comforting meal that everyone will love.

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 Thickener

• 2 Tbsp corn starch
• 4 Tbsp cold water

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are a few fun twists you might want to try:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture; they hold up wonderfully in the slow cooker.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition—just make sure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch!
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different types of mustard—like whole grain or spicy brown—for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because it helps the seasoning stick better! Sprinkle salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika evenly over the top of your chicken pieces. This blend adds wonderful flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. This sauce is what brings everything together! Pour it over your seasoned chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Chicken

Close your crockpot lid and set it to LOW heat. Let your chicken cook for about 3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. I always recommend checking at around 2 hours if possible; this way, you can ensure everything cooks perfectly!

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked through, pull apart your chicken into large chunks or shred it completely using two forks. This step not only makes serving easier but also allows those delicious juices to coat every bite!

Step 5: Add Cream for Richness

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream into your sauce. This addition gives it that creamy texture we all crave. It’s like adding a little extra luxury without much effort!

Step 6: Thicken Your Sauce (Optional)

If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix cold water with cornstarch until smooth and stir it into your crockpot mixture. Allow it to heat on warm or low for about 30 minutes more; it’ll thicken as it cooks down.

Serve & Enjoy!

Once you’ve reached your desired thickness, serve this beautiful dish hot! It’s perfect over rice or even tucked into wraps for an easy meal any night of the week.

I hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This recipe is super simple, but a few tips can make it even more delicious and ensure everything goes smoothly!

• Prep ahead: Marinating the chicken in the honey mustard mixture overnight can enhance the flavor. Just toss everything together the night before, and let it soak in those delicious flavors!

• Use chicken thighs for added moisture: While chicken breasts are great, thighs have a little extra fat which keeps them juicy and tender during the cooking process.

• Check your crockpot’s temperature: Different models cook differently. If yours runs hot, check for doneness at 2 hours instead of 3 to prevent overcooking.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to swap out or add spices like thyme or rosemary for a personal touch. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.

• Leftover magic: Shredded leftovers make fantastic sandwiches or wraps for lunch the next day. Just add some fresh greens and your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Serving Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken can be as creative as you want! Whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting friends, these ideas will help present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color and a fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sliced green onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that enhances presentation.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color to your plate and provides a healthy crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Fluffy rice: A bed of fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious honey mustard sauce.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a nutty flavor and an extra boost of protein. Plus, it’s an excellent way to add some texture to your meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the chicken while adding wonderful nutrition.

With these serving suggestions, your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will not only taste amazing but also look delightful on the table! Enjoy sharing this delicious meal with your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeks when you need quick and delicious meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.
• If possible, separate the chicken from the sauce to keep it fresh longer.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label your container with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also use the microwave; just heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about this delicious dish.

Can I use chicken thighs for Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and will add extra tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary; they may take slightly longer than breasts.

How long does Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s kept in an airtight container!

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative that fits your dietary preferences.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, brown rice, or quinoa. You can also serve it over a fresh salad for a delightful twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy and scrumptious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! It’s an excellent way to bring family together around a warm meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free! So gather your loved ones, savor each bite, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!