Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is the perfect answer to busy weeknights! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Ideal for family dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep, this pulled chicken recipe brings a delightful sweet and tangy flavor to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With only four main ingredients, this recipe is easy to make without compromising on taste.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on sandwiches, over rice, or with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in the slow cooker and come home to a delicious dinner ready to enjoy.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help you achieve the best results while keeping the process simple.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken stays tender and juicy as it simmers.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your sauce.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps combine ingredients smoothly, making preparation easier.
• Tongs: Perfect for handling cooked chicken without shredding it too much when serving.

Ingredients

This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Shredded Chicken Sandwich Recipe is an easy dinner made in your crockpot with just 4 ingredients! A pulled chicken sandwich with sweet and tangy honey mustard flavor!

For the Chicken

• 3 lbs Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 1/4 Cup Honey
• 3 Tablespoons Whole Grain Dijon Mustard
• 1/4 Cup Water

For the Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons Water (additional)
• 2 teaspoons Cornstarch
• 2 Cups Red Cabbage (chopped or shredded)
• 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
• 3 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
• Pinch of Salt/Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Whole Grain Dijon Mustard
• 2 teaspoons Honey
• 2 teaspoons Sugar

How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In your slow cooker, place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Pour in 1/4 cup honey and 3 tablespoons of whole grain Dijon mustard. Add 1/4 cup water to help create a sauce as it cooks.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it on low heat and let it cook for about 4 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily once it’s done.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of additional water with cornstarch to make a slurry. Stir well until there are no lumps. After cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Shred it using two forks.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add chopped red cabbage, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, additional mustard, honey, and sugar. Mix everything well together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once combined, let everything cook together on low for an additional 15-30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld nicely. Serve warm on sandwich rolls or over rice for a delicious meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Sandwiches

• Serve the shredded chicken on soft rolls or baguettes for an easy sandwich option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Salads

• Use the honey mustard chicken as a topping for mixed greens. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

Tacos

• Fill corn or flour tortillas with the pulled chicken, diced avocados, and chopped cilantro for a fun taco night twist.

Wraps

• Roll up the chicken with fresh veggies and your favorite dressing in a tortilla. This makes for a quick and healthy meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

To achieve the ultimate flavor and texture with your Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use quality ingredients – Fresh, high-quality chicken thighs enhance flavor and tenderness.

• Adjust sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce honey slightly to suit your taste.

• Add spices – Experiment with garlic powder or paprika to give an extra kick to the dish.

• Thicken the sauce – For a richer consistency, combine cornstarch with water before adding it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized add depth to the meal.

3. Brown Rice – A nutritious base that soaks up all the delicious honey mustard sauce perfectly.

4. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side that complements the flavors of the dish.

5. Quinoa Salad – A light salad mixed with herbs and lemon dressing adds texture while keeping it healthy.

6. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with honey mustard flavors, adding a delightful sweetness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken even better. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness. Other cuts can dry out during slow cooking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key! Ensure you measure honey and mustard correctly to balance flavors.
• Skipping the searing step: While optional, searing chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor. This step can be skipped but is recommended for depth.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Too much chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results.
• Ignoring liquid ratios: The right amount of liquid is crucial. Avoid too little or too much water to ensure proper cooking and avoid drying out.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture when shredding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken?

It takes about 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low in your slow cooker.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if desired, adjusting cooking times as needed.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs well with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or on a bed of rice for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots or potatoes into the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers delicious sweet and tangy flavors perfect for any dinner table. You can customize it with your favorite sides or additional vegetables. Try it out and enjoy a hassle-free meal that everyone will love!