Honey mustard crock pot chicken is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with a sweet and tangy honey mustard flavor. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and cleanup, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy a delicious meal. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from ingredient selection to serving suggestions, ensuring you achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time.
What are the Ingredients for Honey Mustard Crock Pot Chicken?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You'll need just a handful of readily available ingredients:
- Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts work best. Thighs stay more moist, while breasts offer a leaner option. About 1.5-2 lbs is ideal for a standard-sized slow cooker.
- Honey: Use your favorite type – clover, wildflower, or even a flavored honey like orange blossom can add extra depth.
- Mustard: Dijon mustard is classic, but you can experiment with whole grain or stone-ground for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the chicken brown slightly before going into the slow cooker.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
- Optional additions: Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra complexity. Dried herbs like thyme or rosemary also pair well.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Honey Mustard Crock Pot Chicken?
Cooking time will depend on your slow cooker and the type of chicken you use. Generally:
- Low setting: 6-8 hours
- High setting: 3-4 hours
Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for Honey Mustard Crock Pot Chicken?
While it's best to use thawed chicken, you can use frozen chicken in a slow cooker. However, you'll need to add at least an additional 1-2 hours to the cooking time, especially on the low setting. The longer cooking time helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and reaches a safe internal temperature.
What Sides Go Well with Honey Mustard Crock Pot Chicken?
The sweet and tangy honey mustard flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the chicken perfectly.
- Rice: Plain white rice or wild rice are excellent choices.
- Green beans: Simple steamed or roasted green beans provide a refreshing contrast.
- Cornbread: A touch of sweetness in the cornbread balances the savory chicken.
How Do I Make the Honey Mustard Sauce for Crock Pot Chicken?
The sauce is incredibly simple! In a small bowl, whisk together your honey and mustard until smooth. You can adjust the ratio to your preference – more honey for extra sweetness, more mustard for a bolder tang. Drizzle the mixture over the chicken before cooking.
Can I Make Honey Mustard Crock Pot Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time when you're ready to cook it.
Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Crock Pot Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Allow space for the chicken to cook evenly.
- Sear the chicken (optional): For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and simmer the remaining liquid on the stovetop for a few minutes. You can also mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) for thickening.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey, mustard, and seasonings to your preference.
This versatile recipe allows for customization and experimentation, making it a delicious and adaptable option for any weeknight meal. Enjoy your flavorful and effortless honey mustard crock pot chicken!
