Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken has become a comforting staple for families seeking a blend of effortless preparation and incredible flavor. This dish combines the timeless pairing of sweet honey and tangy mustard, all enveloping tender, slow-cooked chicken.
The convenience of a slow cooker allows home cooks to prepare a satisfying meal with minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Over the last decade, the slow cooker, once regarded as a retro kitchen gadget, has easily re-established itself as an essential tool for home chefs.
The honey mustard flavor has European origins, with honey being a staple from ancient times and mustard gaining popularity in French cuisine before crossing the Atlantic. By merging these two flavors, this classic chicken recipe has been widely celebrated in American kitchens, evolving into countless variations.
The Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken recipe highlights the natural juiciness of chicken while infusing it with a balance of sweetness and sharpness from honey and mustard. Whether you serve it over rice, with roasted vegetables, or nestled in a sandwich roll, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Not only does this recipe delight the taste buds, but it also makes meal planning a breeze, fitting seamlessly into the modern routine. By focusing on simple ingredients and providing plenty of room for tweaking, this dish is approachable for beginners but equally impressive for seasoned cooks.
Explore the harmonious flavors and make Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken your next go-to meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Pour the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the Crock Pot and set aside on a serving platter.
- Stir the remaining sauce in the Crock Pot. For a thicker sauce, transfer to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until reduced.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken breasts, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is a balanced meal option, combining lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a flavorful sauce that's moderate in fat and calories. One serving (based on four servings) contains approximately 320–350 calories, with 6–8 grams of fat, primarily from olive oil.
The dish boasts about 30–35 grams of protein, making it ideal for individuals seeking muscle repair and satiety. While the honey contributes to natural sugars (around 16–18 grams per serving), the overall carbohydrate count remains moderate.
The recipe is gluten-free (when using gluten-free mustard and vinegar) and free from dairy, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. The use of garlic, apple cider vinegar, and mustard adds micronutrients like zinc, vitamin C, and trace minerals that support immune health.
You can pair this meal with roasted vegetables or a side salad to round out your plate with more fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Those monitoring their sodium intake can easily adjust the amount of added salt or use low-sodium mustard options.
While honey does add sugar, it also offers trace antioxidants and is preferable to processed sweeteners. Overall, this Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken recipe delivers a combination of nourishing protein, moderate healthy fats, and natural sweetness in a convenient, family-friendly format.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Pair Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines cut through the richness of the honey mustard sauce and complement its sweet and tangy notes.
If you prefer red wine, a lightly chilled Gamay or Pinot Noir will work well due to their low tannin and bright fruit profiles.
For non-alcoholic options, iced herbal teas such as mint or chamomile offer a refreshing contrast, while sparkling water infused with lemon or orange slices enhances the overall dining experience. Apple cider is another excellent pairing, bridging the honey's sweetness and mustard's sharpness beautifully.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For the juiciest Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken, use boneless, skinless thighs in place of breasts if preferred; they remain moist and tender during slow cooking. When assembling the sauce, opt for real or local honey and quality Dijon for the richest flavor.
Infuse extra depth by adding a splash of soy sauce or a hint of fresh lemon zest. If you desire some heat, a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne can provide a gentle kick.
For a thicker sauce, after removing the chicken, transfer the cooking liquids to a saucepan and reduce them until they reach the consistency you like, or whisk in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep and leftovers, as the flavors develop and deepen overnight. You can shred the leftover chicken and use it in salads, wraps, or sandwiches. For a lower sugar option, substitute some of the honey with sugar-free alternatives, or increase the mustard for extra tanginess.
Mix in diced vegetables during the last hour of cooking for an easy one-pot meal—carrots, bell peppers, and green beans work especially well. For a gluten-free result, ensure your vinegars and mustards are certified gluten-free.
This dish adapts well for larger crowds; simply double the ingredients and use a suitably sized slow cooker. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is a versatile main course that can suit both casual family nights and relaxed dinner parties alike.
Serve the chicken breasts whole with a generous drizzle of the savory sauce over steamed jasmine rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or a bed of quinoa for a satisfying grain base. For lighter fare, pair the chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables or a crisp green salad dressed with simple vinaigrette.
If serving a crowd, consider shredding the chicken and offering it slider-style on soft buns with tangy coleslaw for a fun, informal twist. For elegant plating, slice the chicken and fan it over wild rice pilaf, garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme.
This recipe is ideal for make-ahead lunches—store individual servings in meal prep containers with a side of roasted broccoli or mixed greens. Add extra character to your plate by including grilled corn on the cob, sautéed green beans, or a medley of colorful bell peppers.
For a heartier meal, include warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the honey mustard sauce. To complement the flavor of the dish, produce a family-style spread with bowls of rice, salad, and steamed vegetables so everyone can customize their meal.
Always serve the dish hot, as this enhances the aromatic qualities of the sauce and chicken. Individual portions can be easily reheated, making this a convenient option for busy weeks.
Health Benefits
Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken offers several noteworthy health benefits, making it not only delicious but also nutritious for a variety of diets. The lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken breasts supports muscle maintenance, tissue repair, and general satiety, keeping you fuller for longer.
The sauce, made primarily from honey and mustard, provides natural antioxidants. Mustard seeds contain selenium and magnesium, which support immune and metabolic function. Honey, when used in moderation, supplies trace vitamins, enzymes, and has natural antibacterial properties.
Olive oil is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can improve cholesterol levels and contribute to overall cardiovascular wellness. The use of garlic offers potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
By opting for less added salt or low-sodium ingredients, this recipe can cater to various dietary sensitivities, including those managing hypertension. The meal is free from processed ingredients, gluten, and dairy (when using gluten-free condiments), making it suitable for those with common food sensitivities or allergies.
Its overall nutrient profile—featuring protein, healthy fats, and moderate carbs—supports balanced blood sugar and energy levels. The flexibility to add extra vegetables or swap in leaner cuts ensures the dish fits a range of health goals, from weight management to general wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are an excellent substitute and tend to stay moist and flavorful during slow cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may cook a bit faster.
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving, and it often tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.
Yes, the cooked chicken and sauce can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
To thicken the sauce, remove the chicken at the end of cooking and simmer the sauce uncovered in a saucepan for several minutes. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce.
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, sautéed vegetables, quinoa, or even over mixed greens for a lighter option.
Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken stands out as a beloved recipe that seamlessly combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition in one slow-cooked meal. Its sweet and tangy sauce, tender chicken, and endless versatility make it an enduring favorite for busy weeknights, gatherings, or simple home-cooked dinners. Whether you're looking for an easy family meal, a reliable option for entertaining, or inspiration for healthy meal prep, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With room to customize and adapt to your preferences, Crock Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is destined to become a recurring feature in your culinary repertoire—delicious, approachable, and sure to satisfy all palates.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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1Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
-
2In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
-
3Pour the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
-
4Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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5Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the Crock Pot and set aside on a serving platter.
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6Stir the remaining sauce in the Crock Pot. For a thicker sauce, transfer to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until reduced.
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7Spoon the sauce over the chicken breasts, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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