Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With just ten minutes of prep time, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavor profile that everyone will enjoy. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this dish can be served with various sides, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only ten minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it while your crockpot does the work.
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of honey and dijon mustard offers a unique taste that balances sweetness and tanginess.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in wraps, or with vegetables; the options are endless!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family meals.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a crockpot means fewer pots and pans to wash afterwards!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken smoothly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can significantly streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, giving you more time to relax or attend to other tasks.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl simplifies the process of combining ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your honey mustard sauce is well-blended and smooth before pouring over the chicken.

Ingredients

This Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is a 10 minute prep dinner that requires only a handful of ingredients. Simple to vary, can be served a number of ways and it is so delicious! This will be the perfect busy weeknight dinner the whole family 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 Honey Mustard 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

How to Make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, oregano, onion powder, and paprika over top, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and melted butter until smooth. Pour this mixture over the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook on Low

Close your slow cooker lid and cook on LOW heat for about 3 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For best results, check at the two-hour mark.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked through, pull apart the chicken into large chunks or shred it completely using two forks. About 30 minutes before serving, add heavy cream into the sauce and stir well.

Step 5: Thicken If Desired

To thicken your sauce, whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into your crockpot sauce and allow it to heat on warm or low setting for about 30 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve

Once you’ve reached your desired thickness for the sauce, it’s time to serve! Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you prefer a classic approach or something a bit more creative, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the honey mustard sauce beautifully.

With Vegetables

• Pair with sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. This adds a nutritious touch and vibrant color to your plate.

In Sandwiches

• Shred the chicken and place it inside a sandwich roll for a quick lunch option. Add lettuce and tomato for extra crunch.

On Salads

• Use the chicken as a topping on mixed greens with your favorite salad dressing. The sweet and tangy flavors make for an exciting salad.

With Quinoa

• Serve alongside or on top of fluffy quinoa for a protein-packed dish that complements the flavors well.

As Tacos

• Shred the chicken and fill corn tortillas, adding avocado, salsa, and cheese for delicious tacos that are easy to prepare.

How to Perfect Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Perfecting your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken can take your dinner from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can add more flavor compared to dried options.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference; less honey will yield a tangier sauce.
• Choose Quality Mustard: Use high-quality Dijon mustard for a richer flavor profile in your dish.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check the chicken at around 2 hours to ensure it doesn’t overcook and dry out.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding different spices like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the dish right after cooking to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

Complementing your Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide comfort and soak up the delicious sauce.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crispy texture and earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet chicken.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with honey mustard flavors while offering nutritional benefits.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with vegetables makes for an excellent side that is quick to prepare.
6. Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat; grill or boil it just before serving for best flavor.
7. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad with Italian dressing provides a refreshing contrast to warm chicken.
8. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both elegance and crunch as a side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking with a crockpot can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you cover the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices evenly.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the chicken is a frequent mistake. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety.
• Bold thickening issues: Forgetting to thicken the sauce can leave it watery. Use cornstarch mixed with cold water to achieve your desired consistency.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using inappropriate substitutes can alter the flavor. Stick to honey and Dijon mustard for an authentic taste.
• Bold skipping prep: Rushing through prep can lead to uneven cooking. Take your time to pat down the chicken and mix sauces thoroughly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• The dish can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20–25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What is Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a tender and flavorful dish made by slow-cooking chicken in a honey mustard sauce.

How do I make Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken spicier?

To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the honey mustard mixture before cooking.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or beef if you prefer those over chicken.

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

Cooking on LOW typically takes about 3 hours, but always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I serve with Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful and versatile meal perfect for busy weeknights. Its simple preparation and rich flavor make it appealing to everyone at the table. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels!