Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken

This easy slow cooker honey mustard chicken has rescued me on hectic weeknights more than any takeout ever could The tender pulled chicken bursts with sweet and tangy flavor and all you need are a handful of pantry ingredients It is the kind of meal that makes the whole kitchen smell delicious and when stacked high with crunchy slaw you get a sandwich that actually makes you pause and savor dinner

The first time I made this my kids asked for seconds before finishing their first sandwich Now this recipe is our top pick for busy Saturday nights after soccer practice

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs boneless skinless: These pieces get especially tender and shred easily in the slow cooker Look for thighs that are plump and pink with no excess liquid in the package
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and makes the sauce silky Choose local honey if possible for the freshest taste
• Whole grain Dijon mustard: Brings a rich punchy flavor with bursts of whole mustard seeds Go for a good brand with visible grains for best flavor
• Water: Used to thin the sauce and help everything meld You want fresh cool water avoid anything with off tastes
• Cornstarch: Makes the sauce thick and glossy Use a fresh unopened box for the best thickening
• Red cabbage Chopped or shredded: Adds vibrant color and crunch The leaves should be firm not wilted and deeply purple
• Olive oil: Binds the slaw and adds richness Use extra virgin with a green fresh aroma for best results
• Apple cider vinegar: Gives the slaw a tangy note and keeps it crisp Choose raw unfiltered for extra kick
• Salt and pepper: Round out the flavors I like fresh ground black pepper for a subtle heat
• Sugar and honey: Lighten the vinaigrette and balance the acidity Use white sugar and the same honey as for the chicken

Instructions

Make the honey mustard sauce:

In a measuring cup blend the honey whole grain Dijon mustard and water Stir thoroughly until the mixture is totally smooth and cohesive This is the flavor base for your chicken

Layer chicken in the slow cooker:

Arrange the chicken thighs evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker Pour the sauce over top and use tongs to turn the thighs so every piece is well coated This helps it all cook and season evenly

Slow cook until tender:

Cover and set your slow cooker on low Cook for four to four and a half hours You want the chicken to be fallapart tender The slower cook time means maximum flavor and juiciness

Thicken the sauce and shred:

Mix the extra water with cornstarch in a small bowl until dissolved Just before serving stir this mixture into the slow cooker Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot Cover and continue to cook for twenty minutes more so the sauce thickens

Season and finish:

Taste the chicken when done Add salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed Stir well so every shred is glossy with sauce

Make the slaw:

While the chicken cooks combine shredded red cabbage olive oil apple cider vinegar a pinch of salt and pepper whole grain mustard honey and sugar in a bowl Toss thoroughly The flavors blend best if you refrigerate the slaw at least an hour or overnight

Assemble the sandwiches:

Pile the shredded honey mustard chicken onto soft sandwich rolls Top with a generous heap of the tangy cabbage slaw and serve while still warm

Pin

I absolutely love how the whole grain mustard pops in every bite It is like a little flavor surprise I will never forget my youngest demanding to lick the spoon after shredding the chicken she was sold on the honey mustard for life

Storage Tips

Keep leftover chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge The chicken lasts up to four days and the slaw stays crisp for two to three days For longer storage freeze the shredded chicken without the slaw in small portions to thaw and reheat whenever you need

Ingredient Substitutions

Use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer an even lighter sandwich or try turkey thighs for a new twist If you only have yellow mustard mix it with a bit of whole grain and a pinch of extra honey to mimic the flavor

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is perfect for sandwiches but it is just as good piled onto baked potatoes or stuffed into warm flatbreads For a low carb option serve it wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves The slaw can double as a refreshing side salad

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

Honey mustard is a classic American flavor combination especially in the South where sweet tangy sauces dress everything from barbecue to chicken I love making this in late summer when farmers market cabbage is at its sweetest but it is wonderful all year round

Pin

Make a double batch to freeze for easy weeknight dinners The leftovers are just as delicious reheated the next day

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, though thighs offer a juicier, more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.

→ How do I keep the chicken moist in the slow cooker?

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs helps maintain moisture. Cooking on low and not overcooking preserves tenderness.

→ What type of rolls pair best?

Soft sandwich rolls or brioche buns work best, as they absorb the sauce and hold up to the filling without falling apart.

→ Can I prepare the slaw in advance?

Yes, refrigerating the slaw overnight enhances flavor and texture, making it even more refreshing for serving.

→ How do I thicken the honey mustard sauce?

Stir a cornstarch-water slurry into the slow cooker after shredding the chicken and cook until the sauce thickens.