Name: Savory Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb Chicken (skinless breasts or thighs); 1 tsp Dried Oregano (fresh oregano works too); 1 tsp Paprika (smoked paprika adds deeper flavor); 0.25 tsp Onion Powder (fresh onions can be used); 0.5 tsp Pepper (freshly cracked is ideal); 0.5 tsp Salt (adjust to taste); 0.25 c Honey (maple syrup may be used); 0.25 c Dijon Mustard (yellow mustard could substitute); 2 Tbsp Butter (melted; olive oil is a lighter option); 2-3 cloves Garlic (minced; garlic powder can substitute); 0.25 c Heavy Cream (dairy-free options available); 2 Tbsp Cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 4 Tbsp Cold Water (for mixing with cornstarch)

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As I stirred the warm, golden sauce bubbling away in my trusty Crock Pot, the inviting aroma of honey and mustard swirled through the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to family dinners filled with laughter. This Easy Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken recipe merges convenience with mouthwatering flavor, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll enjoy tender, juicy chicken that your whole family will adore. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and tangy that elevates your dinner game while being incredibly family-friendly and gluten-free. Ready for a dish that not only pleases the palate but also makes your life easier? Let’s dive into the magic of slow cooking!

Why is Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity is Key: The beauty of this recipe lies in its uncomplicated preparation. With just 10 minutes of active cooking time, anyone can create a flavorful dish without the fuss.

Mouthwatering Flavor: The honey mustard sauce strikes a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This crock pot magic melds flavors beautifully, making it a hit for family dinners.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in chicken thighs for an extra juicy bite or mix in some veggies for a complete meal. You might also enjoy experimenting with variations like Hot Honey Chicken for a spicy twist.

Family-Friendly and Gluten-Free: Everyone at the table will appreciate this dish, as it’s designed to satisfy both adults and kids while keeping it gluten-free. For added comfort, serve it with fluffy mashed potatoes or a side salad!

Leftovers Done Right: This dish stores well, making meal prep easy for busy weeks ahead. You’ll have satisfying leftovers that reheating is a breeze, perfect for those pulled-together weekday lunches.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to this Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken that turns every busy night into a delicious experience!

Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken (1.5 lb) – The star of the dish; opt for skinless breasts or succulent thighs based on your preference.

For the Seasoning
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Imparts an earthy flavor; feel free to swap in fresh oregano if it’s on hand.
• Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and color; smoked paprika will give a deeper flavor.
• Onion Powder (¼ tsp) – Brings sweetness and depth; fresh onions are an excellent alternative for more punch.
• Pepper (½ tsp) – Key for seasoning; freshly cracked black pepper truly elevates the dish.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.

For the Sauce
• Honey (¼ c) – This sweet ingredient balances the tang of mustard; maple syrup is a delightful substitute if desired.
• Dijon Mustard (¼ c) – Provides the necessary tang; use yellow mustard in a pinch, but expect a difference in flavor.
• Butter (2 Tbsp, melted) – Adds a rich creaminess; olive oil can lighten it up if preferred.
• Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aroma and flavor; garlic powder works if you’re in a hurry.
• Heavy Cream (¼ c) – Makes the sauce velvety; consider dairy-free cream for a lighter version.
• Cornstarch (optional, 2 Tbsp) and Cold Water (4 Tbsp) – Used to thicken the sauce if you prefer a heartier consistency.

Turn your busy nights into something special with this Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken, not just for ease but for a heartwarming flavor explosion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry to ensure a nice sear. Season it generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, onion powder, and paprika, making sure all sides are well coated. This step infuses the chicken with flavor while it’s cooking in the slow cooker. Set your Crock Pot to the LOW setting.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until you have a smooth, golden mixture. This delightful honey mustard sauce will be the star of your dish, providing that sweet-tangy balance. It should be well combined with no lumps for the best flavor in your Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Pour the honey mustard mixture over the seasoned chicken in the Crock Pot, ensuring every piece is well-coated with that luscious sauce. This step not only enhances the flavor but helps to keep the chicken moist as it cooks. Spread the sauce evenly to cover any exposed chicken pieces for optimal flavor absorption.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the chicken on LOW for approximately 3 hours. At the 2-hour mark, check for doneness by measuring the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F. The chicken should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork when it’s fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the Crock Pot and use two forks to shred or pull it apart into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, allowing it to soak in all those flavorful juices, making every bite of your Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken incredibly juicy.

Step 6: Stir in the Cream
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream to create a rich and creamy sauce. Allow it to heat through, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker sauce, now is the time to mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the pot, letting it cook on low until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Final Touches
Let the sauce thicken over low heat as necessary, stirring gently to combine all the flavors. As the sauce simmers, pay attention to its rich, inviting color and aroma. Once ready, serve your Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or alongside your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it retains its delicious flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the leftovers over rice, pasta, or on a fresh bun for a delightful twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and prepare the honey mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply pat the chicken dry, season it, and store it in an airtight container; whisk the sauce ingredients together and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to cook, just pour the sauce over the chicken in your slow cooker and let it do all the work for you. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, and the flavors will still be just as delightful. Enjoy your making-ahead benefits and savor that mouthwatering flavor!

What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

As the enticing aroma of honey mustard wafts through your kitchen, it’s time to create a meal that captures the heart and soul of home cooking.

Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they soak up the rich sauce beautifully, providing the perfect comfort food experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add texture and a burst of color, complementing the chicken with sweetness and crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets lend a fresh, vibrant contrast to the dish while offering valuable nutrients that balance the meal.
Egg Noodles: Tender and delightful, they make an excellent base for soaking up every drop of the sticky, flavorful sauce.
Simple Green Salad: Crunchy greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterpoint that clears the palate, ensuring every bite of chicken is savored.
Crisp Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side perfect for mopping up the delicious honey mustard sauce, turning each meal into an experience.
Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of white wine complements the tangy notes of the honey mustard, perfectly balancing the dish’s flavors.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, comforting dish brings additional sweetness and a delightful crunch, rounding out your family dinner beautifully.

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness; always check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F for optimal juiciness.
Use Low Setting: For the best texture and flavor, stick to the LOW setting on your slow cooker. Cooking on high can result in tough, stringy chicken.
Customize Your Sauce: Experiment with different mustards or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra zing. Feel free to adjust the honey for your preferred sweetness.
Add Vegetables: Increase nutrition and flavor by adding root vegetables or greens to the pot, making it a complete meal in one slow cooker.
Save Some Sauce: Reserve a portion of the honey mustard sauce before adding the cream, allowing you to drizzle it over the shredded chicken when serving for added moisture and flavor.

Elevate your next family dinner with this simple yet delicious Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken!

Variations on Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

Feel free to personalize your dish with these fun twists and substitutions that can elevate your experience even further!

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to add more flavor and juiciness, perfect for those who appreciate a rich taste.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in carrots, potatoes, or broccoli in the slow cooker to create a complete meal without any extra effort.
Creamy Dream: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a tangy twist and healthier alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty heat that will wake up the flavor profile. This little tweak makes it an exciting dish for the spicy food lovers in your family!
Mustard Varieties: Change things up by using whole grain mustard for a bit more texture and depth. The added crunch is delightful and unexpected!
Sweet Alternatives: Consider using agave syrup or brown sugar for a different sweet dimension that may complement your palate even better.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with a dairy-free cream or coconut milk, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this dish too.
Flavorful Sauce: Mix in a splash of apple cider vinegar or soy sauce to enhance the tanginess and savory complexity of the honey mustard sauce.

Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine! Perhaps you’ll be inspired to try pairing this tasty dish with sides like Bbq Chicken Mac or a refreshing Chicken and Broccoli Savory salad for a delightful meal experience!

Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken, I recommend using skinless chicken breasts for a lean option or chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Look for meat that is firm to the touch and free of any dark spots or unpleasant odor, ensuring you have fresh, quality chicken that will cook beautifully in the slow cooker.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store any leftover Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay good for about 3-4 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze the honey mustard chicken?
Very! To freeze your Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken, first allow it to cool down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label each with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency if needed.

What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking?
If you find your Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken has come out dry, here are some troubleshooting tips: First, always make sure you’re cooking at the LOW setting; high heat can dry it out quickly. For next time, ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F without exceeding too much. If it does turn out dry, try shredding the chicken into the sauce and letting it simmer for a few minutes, which can help it absorb moisture back in.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is! This Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken can easily be enjoyed by those needing gluten-free options. Just ensure your Dijon mustard does not contain any gluten-related ingredients, and opt for gluten-free broth or cream if necessary. It’s a delightful meal everyone can enjoy!

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Adding vegetables like carrots or potatoes can create a complete meal in one pot. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and layer them at the bottom of the slow cooker before placing the seasoned chicken on top. This way, they’ll absorb all those delicious flavors while cooking, enriching your meal even more!