Prepare to discover your new go-to weeknight meal with this incredibly simple and intensely flavorful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken! Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly balances the sweet tang of honey and Dijon mustard, complemented by aromatic fresh garlic. This isn’t just another slow cooker recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed for maximum taste with minimal effort. You’ll revel in the sheer convenience and the remarkably easy cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy families and anyone seeking a stress-free dinner solution. So, dust off your slow cooker, and let’s create a delectable honey mustard chicken dish that will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home tonight!
The magic of slow cooking transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. By gently simmering the poultry for hours, the chicken becomes fall-apart tender, absorbing every nuance of the exquisite honey mustard sauce. This method ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, from the sweetness of the honey to the sharp zest of Dijon and the pungent warmth of garlic. If you’re searching for a foolproof, incredibly flavorful, and adaptable slow cooker chicken recipe, look no further. This Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is not only astonishingly easy to prepare, requiring little more than a quick assembly, but it’s also wonderfully customizable. Feel free to explore different mustard varieties, introduce a touch of heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an added layer of aromatic depth. It’s the perfect foundation for countless delicious meals.
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Why This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken is a Must-Try
This recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a brilliant solution for anyone who loves robust flavors but has limited time. Here are compelling reasons why this Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken needs to be on your menu:
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The Trifecta of Taste! This easy Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is an absolute dream come true for honey mustard aficionados. We’re talking about a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory that creates an irresistible sauce. The combination of golden honey, piquant Dijon mustard, and fragrant fresh garlic forms a “trifecta of sauces” that is both creamy and deeply satisfying. This luxurious sauce perfectly coats every piece of chicken, infusing it with layers of complex flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a taste sensation that genuinely stands out.
- Effortless Preparation and Incredible Convenience: Set It and Forget It! Bid farewell to long hours spent slaving over a hot stove or constantly monitoring the oven. This is the epitome of a “dump and go” slow cooker meal, designed for maximum convenience. Simply combine your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. There’s an unparalleled sense of calm and relief that comes with walking through the door after a busy day, knowing that a hot, delicious, and healthy dinner is patiently waiting for you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping for the week ahead, or even a leisurely Sunday meal. This recipe is also fantastic for preparing affordable and healthy lunches that you can enjoy throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly and Universally Loved: A Kid-Approved Delight! This Honey Mustard Chicken is a guaranteed hit with all ages, even the pickiest eaters! Its sweet and tangy profile, reminiscent of favorite chicken tenders dipped in honey mustard sauce, makes it incredibly appealing to children. Parents will appreciate the lean protein it provides, ensuring a wholesome and nourishing meal for the entire family. It’s a fantastic way to get a flavorful, home-cooked dinner on the table without any fuss, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Craving a super speedy chicken option? Don’t miss our incredible Chick-fil-A grilled chicken nuggets copycat recipe. They’re quick, easy, and absolutely delicious – ready in mere minutes!
Key Ingredients and Clever Substitutions
Crafting this delicious Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken requires a handful of accessible ingredients that work in harmony to create its signature taste. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need, along with smart substitutions to accommodate various preferences or pantry availability:
- Chicken Stock or Broth: This foundational liquid is crucial for maintaining the chicken’s moisture and significantly deepening the overall flavor of the sauce. It provides a savory base that helps all the other ingredients meld beautifully.
- Yellow Onion: Diced yellow onion adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth that rounds out the sauce. If yellow onions aren’t on hand, you can easily substitute with white or red onions; red onions may impart a slightly sharper flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: The star of our tangy sauce, Dijon mustard offers a sophisticated, slightly spicy kick. For a similar but milder profile, stone-ground mustard makes an excellent swap. If you prefer a sweeter, less intense mustard flavor, a good quality honey mustard can also work, just adjust the amount of added honey accordingly.
- Honey: This natural sweetener is essential for balancing the mustard’s tang and creating that irresistible “honey mustard” character. If your honey is thick and difficult to mix, a quick warm-up in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or placing the jar in a bowl of warm water will make it wonderfully pourable.
- Unsalted Butter: Butter contributes richness and a silky texture to the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning precisely. If you opt for salted butter, remember to omit or reduce the kosher salt added to the recipe to prevent over-salting.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for adding a complex layer of umami and depth of flavor. Its savory notes beautifully complement the sweet and tangy elements. If you find yourself without it, soy sauce can be used as a suitable substitute, offering a similar savory boost.
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: Do not skip the garlic! Freshly minced garlic provides an incomparable aromatic intensity that is vital to this dish. While fresh is always best for flavor, pre-minced garlic in a jar is a convenient alternative for busy moments.
- Spices and Herbs: A thoughtful blend of dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper, coarse kosher salt, and garlic powder elevates the chicken’s natural flavor and seasons the sauce perfectly. These spices infuse the dish with warmth and character.
- Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breasts: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their ease of preparation and consistent cooking. However, this recipe is incredibly versatile! You can substitute with bone-in breasts (remove meat from bone before cooking for easier shredding) or, for even juicier results, boneless, skinless chicken thighs. A mix of poultry pieces also works wonderfully, allowing you to cater to everyone’s preference.
- Heavy Cream: The heavy cream is what gives this sauce its luxurious, velvety texture and rich mouthfeel. It transforms the tangy-sweet base into a truly decadent experience. If you don’t have heavy cream, you can create a simple cornstarch slurry: whisk two teaspoons of cornstarch with 1/3 cup of cold milk in a small bowl, then stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish): A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley before serving adds a bright pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that beautifully complements the rich sauce. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
Recipe Variations for Every Palate
One of the best aspects of this Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your family’s tastes:
- Heartier Bone-in Chicken Thighs: For an even deeper flavor and incredibly juicy results, swap boneless chicken breasts for bone-in chicken thighs. The bones contribute more flavor to the sauce, and the darker meat tends to stay moister during long cooking times. Ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F.
- Spicy Honey Mustard Kick: If you love a bit of heat, introduce a pinch of smoked paprika and a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and increase to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Garlic Lover’s Dream: For those who can’t get enough garlic, simply double the amount of fresh minced garlic. This will infuse the dish with an even bolder, more pungent garlic flavor that truly shines.
- Extra Creamy Indulgence: Before serving, stir in an additional splash of heavy cream or a dollop of full-fat Greek yogurt. This will make the sauce exceptionally rich, thick, and velvety, perfect for coating pasta or mashed potatoes.
- Oven-Baked Alternative: No slow cooker? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe for your oven. Prepare the sauce and chicken as instructed, then bake in an oven-safe dish at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add Vegetables: To make this a complete one-pot meal, consider adding hearty vegetables like chopped carrots, potatoes, or celery during the last 1-2 hours of cooking. This will allow them to soften and absorb the delicious sauce without becoming mushy.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs! A sprig of fresh rosemary or a few sprigs of thyme added to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients will impart a wonderfully earthy and aromatic quality to the chicken and sauce. Remove woody stems before serving.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
To whip up this delightful Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken, you won’t need an arsenal of gourmet gadgets. A few basic kitchen tools will suffice, making the process smooth and enjoyable:
- Cutting Board: Essential for safely dicing your onion and mincing garlic. Choose a sturdy board that won’t slip on your counter.
- Sharp Knife: A good quality chef’s knife or utility knife will make quick work of preparing your aromatics and chicken.
- Crockpot or Slow Cooker: The star of the show! Any standard size slow cooker (4-6 quarts is ideal for this recipe) will work perfectly. Ensure it’s clean and ready for its delicious task.
- Two Forks (or a Stand Mixer): These are key for shredding the cooked chicken into tender, pull-apart pieces. If you have a stand mixer, it’s an excellent shortcut for quick shredding (see our Pro Tip below!).
- Meat Thermometer (Instant-Read): Crucial for ensuring your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). An instant-read thermometer provides accurate results quickly, preventing overcooking and ensuring food safety.
- Whisk or Spoon: For combining the sauce ingredients smoothly in the slow cooker.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken
Making this delectable Honey Mustard Chicken in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward, promising a tender, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time:
- Prepare the Flavorful Sauce Base: To begin this easy prep, gather all your sauce ingredients. Add the chicken stock, diced yellow onion, Dijon mustard, honey, unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, freshly minced garlic, and your chosen seasonings (oregano, black pepper, kosher salt, and garlic powder) directly into the bowl of your slow cooker. Using a rubber spatula or a wooden spoon (especially if your crockpot has a non-stick coating), stir all these components together thoroughly until they are well combined and the mixture forms a smooth, aromatic sauce. This ensures an even distribution of all the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
🎯 Pro Tip: Effortless Chicken Shredding!
Did you know you can use your stand mixer to shred cooked chicken with incredible ease and speed? Simply place the cooked chicken breasts (or thighs) into your mixer bowl. Attach the wire whisk or flat beater attachment. Start the mixer on a low speed, and in about 15 seconds, you’ll have perfectly shredded chicken, ready to mix back into your delicious sauce!
- Add the Chicken to the Crockpot: Carefully place the skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or thighs, if using) into the slow cooker, nesting them gently into the prepared honey mustard sauce. Take a moment to turn the chicken pieces to ensure they are thoroughly coated on all sides with the rich sauce. This step is important as it allows the chicken to fully absorb all the wonderful flavors during the slow cooking process, resulting in exceptionally tender and succulent meat.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your crockpot and set the cooking temperature. For optimal tenderness and flavor, cook on the LOW setting for 4 to 5 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook on the HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours, though low and slow generally yields the most succulent results. Towards the end of the cooking time, use an instant-read thermometer to verify the internal temperature of the chicken. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, being careful to avoid any bones. The chicken should reach a safe internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Shred and Finish with Creaminess: Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked and wonderfully tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker to a clean cutting board or bowl. Use two forks to easily shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, for lightning-fast shredding, utilize the pro tip above and use your stand mixer fitted with wire beaters or a flat beater on low speed. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker with the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and use a whisk or spoon to mix until the sauce is beautifully combined and lusciously creamy. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken!
For those with an Instant Pot, you can still enjoy shredded chicken in minutes! Follow our Instant Pot shredded chicken breasts recipe, then simply add the delicious honey mustard sauce ingredients to create a similar flavorful meal.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
This versatile Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken pairs exceptionally well with a wide array of side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a more elaborate gathering. The rich, creamy sauce is simply begging to be soaked up!
- Classic Comfort: Serve it generously over a bed of buttery egg noodles or your favorite pasta. The tender chicken and luscious sauce will cling to the pasta, creating a truly comforting meal.
- Wholesome & Hearty: For a more substantial and satisfying dinner, pair this dish with fluffy Instant Pot no-drain mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes perfectly complement the chicken and sauce. Alternatively, a bed of steamed white or brown rice is excellent for soaking up every drop of that irresistible sauce.
- Light & Fresh: If you’re looking for lighter options, enjoy this chicken alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. A simple side of steamed green beans or a vibrant Kale Mediterranean Salad with Tahini Dressing will add a refreshing contrast and healthy greens to your plate.
- Sandwich & Wrap Sensation: Transform leftovers into quick and easy shredded chicken sandwiches! Pile the honey mustard chicken onto our easy homemade burger buns for a satisfying lunch or light dinner. It also makes a fantastic filling for wraps, pita bread, or even tacos.
- Gourmet Twist: For another creamy and flavorful chicken dinner, try our creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe! This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich, velvety sauce—perfect for a cozy family meal.
- Complete Dinner Spread: To round out your meal, consider adding a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette and some crusty artisan bread for dipping. A glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, or a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade would perfectly complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions: Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken
No, browning the chicken before slow cooking is entirely optional for this recipe. While searing chicken can sometimes add a deeper layer of flavor and create a nice crust, it’s not necessary for this dish. The slow cooker method itself ensures the chicken remains incredibly tender and fully absorbs the sauce’s flavors without any pre-browning step. If your slow cooker has a sauté or sear function, you could use it for a few minutes if you prefer, but rest assured, the chicken will be delicious either way.
No, for most slow cooker chicken recipes, including this Honey Mustard Chicken, the poultry does not need to be fully submerged in liquid. There just needs to be enough broth or stock to create the sauce and allow the chicken to gently poach and steam as it cooks. The slow cooker creates a moist, enclosed environment that helps cook the chicken thoroughly without requiring it to be drowned in liquid, ensuring it stays tender and infused with flavor.
The most common reason for tough chicken after slow cooking is overcooking. While slow cookers are designed for long cooking times, chicken, especially lean chicken breast, can become dry and stringy if cooked for too long or at too high a temperature. The exact cooking time can vary based on your specific slow cooker’s brand and size, as well as the thickness of your chicken pieces. To prevent tough chicken, always check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. Remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C). If possible, checking midway through the suggested cooking time can help you gauge your slow cooker’s efficiency.
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying this delicious dish for days to come. Allow the cooked Honey Mustard Chicken to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3-5 days. For best quality, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Absolutely! Making this recipe gluten-free is quite simple. The main ingredient to watch out for is Worcestershire sauce, as some brands contain gluten. To ensure your dish is gluten-free, simply use tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce, as both are excellent gluten-free alternatives that provide a similar savory depth. Additionally, always double-check the labels on your Dijon mustard, chicken stock/broth, and any other packaged ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free. With these minor adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and worry-free meal!
Yes, this recipe freezes wonderfully! Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, allow it to cool completely. Transfer the chicken and sauce to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce appears too thick.
The best way to reheat Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken is gently to prevent drying it out. For individual servings, the microwave works well: heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. For larger quantities, transfer to a saucepan or skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to thin the sauce if needed, and stir occasionally until thoroughly warm. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate or the chicken to become tough.
Other Delicious Crockpot Recipes to Explore…
- Creamy & Comforting Mac and Cheese Crock Pot Recipe
- Flavorful Slow Cooker Turkey Tenderloins
If you tried this delicious and easy Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken recipe or any other recipe on my website, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating and sharing your thoughts in the 📝 comments section below. Your feedback truly helps and is greatly appreciated. Thank you for stopping by!
Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken
Renae Gerhardstein
Pin
Equipment
- cutting board
- knife
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- 2 forks – or use a mixer to shred the chicken.
- instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
- ½ cup chicken stock
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter is using salted, omit the kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 pounds skinless chicken breasts See notes for substitutions
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the chicken stock, diced onion, Dijon mustard, honey, unsalted butter, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and all seasonings. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed to form the sauce.
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker, turning them to ensure they are fully coated with the honey mustard sauce.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Using an instant-read thermometer, check the internal temperature of the chicken (avoiding bones). Poultry should register at least 165ºF (74°C).
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot. Shred the chicken using two forks, or for quicker results, use a stand mixer fitted with wire beaters or a flat beater on low speed.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the heavy cream and whisk or mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Pro Tip for Shredding: For effortlessly shredded chicken, place cooked chicken breasts in a stand mixer bowl. Use the wire whisk or flat beater attachment on low speed, and your chicken will be perfectly shredded in about 15 seconds!
Ingredient Notes:
- You can use any cut of chicken for this recipe – boneless or bone-in. If opting for bone-in chicken breasts, we recommend removing the meat from the bone before adding them to the slow cooker for easier shredding later. Darker meats like chicken thighs are less prone to overcooking and drying out, so cooking times typically won’t need significant adjustment.
Recipe Variations:
- Bone-in chicken thighs: Use bone-in chicken thighs for even deeper flavor and extra juicy results.
- Spicy honey mustard: Add a pinch of paprika and a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a delightful spicy kick.
- Garlic lover’s version: Double the amount of fresh minced garlic for an intensely bold and aromatic flavor.
- Extra creamy honey mustard: Stir in an additional splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving for an even richer and thicker sauce.
- Baked alternative: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can bake this chicken! Prepare the chicken and sauce as directed, then bake in an oven-safe dish at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers during the last 1-2 hours of cooking for a complete meal.
- Herbaceous Touch: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker for an earthy aroma and flavor.
Storing Instructions:
- Store any leftover Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. It also freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.