
These Dump and Go Crockpot Soy Honey Garlic Chicken thighs make dinner effortless and flavorful. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a sweet and savory glaze that permeates the chicken, leaving it tender and juicy. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, set it, and let the flavors develop without any fuss. It’s a versatile recipe that works great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
I first tried this recipe after a hectic day and loved how little effort it took while still impressing my family. Now it’s one of our go-to meals when time is tight.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: four pieces about two pounds – lean and tender, easy to shred
- Reduced sodium soy sauce: one cup – controls salt level while adding rich umami
- Honey: half a cup – adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce
- Hoisin sauce: quarter cup – lends complexity and a subtle tang
- Rice vinegar: one tablespoon – brightens and balances the sauce
- Toasted sesame oil: one tablespoon – gives a nutty aroma
- Garlic: six to eight cloves, grated – delivers fresh pungency essential to the sauce
- Scallions: for garnish – adds freshness and mild onion flavor
- Sesame seeds: one teaspoon – sprinkle on top for texture and nuttiness
- Salt: quarter teaspoon or to taste – enhances all flavors
- Black pepper: quarter teaspoon or to taste – adds warmth
- Notes: Choose fresh chicken breasts with firm texture for the best shredding results and pick garlic cloves free of soft spots for maximum flavor
Instructions
- Prep the garlic:
- Grate the garlic thoroughly to release its robust flavor.
- Combine ingredients in the slow cooker:
- In your slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, grated garlic, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Cook:
- Cook the chicken on high heat for about three to four hours or on low heat for six to seven hours. Halfway through cooking, carefully flip the chicken breasts to allow even cooking and full flavor absorption on both sides.
- Shred the chicken:
- When the chicken is thoroughly cooked and very tender, shred it using two forks or a hand mixer for easy shredding without strain.
- Serve:
- Serve the shredded chicken over steamed rice and garnish with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for some crunch and extra flavor.

The toasted sesame oil is my favorite ingredient here because it lends such a distinctive nutty fragrance that complements the garlic perfectly. One time, I made this recipe for a family dinner, and hearing everyone enjoy those sweet and savory notes made me realize how simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors.
Storage Tips
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The sauce will continue to infuse the chicken overnight, enhancing the flavor. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep the chicken moist.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer, juicier result. Maple syrup or brown sugar works as a substitute for honey if needed. Tamari sauce makes a good gluten-free replacement for soy sauce. If hoisin sauce is unavailable, a mix of soy sauce and a little brown sugar can mimic the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken with jasmine or basmati rice for soaking up the sauce. Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal. It also works great as a filling for lettuce wraps or in sandwiches with crunchy slaw.

This Dump and Go Crockpot Soy Honey Garlic Chicken is an effortless weeknight winner that freezes and reheats beautifully. Adjust sweetness and salt to taste and enjoy.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and ability to absorb the glaze's flavors well.
- → Can I use a different cooking method other than slow cooker?
While the slow cooker yields tender results, stove simmering or oven baking can work but may alter texture and timing.
- → How do I shred the chicken easily after cooking?
Using a hand mixer or two forks allows effortless shredding once the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- → Is it necessary to flip the chicken while cooking?
Flipping halfway helps even cooking and better absorption of the glaze.
- → What sides pair well with this honey soy chicken?
Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the savory, sweet chicken perfectly.