When you’re craving comfort food but still want to eat clean, Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is your new best friend. This dish is sticky, savory, slightly sweet, and packed with garlicky goodness that infuses every bite of tender chicken. And the best part? The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.

This is the kind of meal that tastes like you put in hours of effort, when in reality, it comes together with just a few pantry staples and minimal prep. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or any time you want a wholesome dinner with maximum flavor and minimal stress.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s naturally gluten-free, made with lean protein, and layered with flavor thanks to the honey, garlic, and soy-inspired glaze. You’ll love how the chicken becomes fall-apart tender after simmering for hours in the sauce. It’s also super family-friendly—even picky eaters clean their plates with this one.

Not only does it require very little hands-on time, but it also reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep. Pair it with rice, steamed veggies, or even wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts or Thighs?

Both! This recipe works well with either chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to stay juicier and shred a bit easier after slow cooking, but if you prefer white meat, boneless skinless chicken breasts are still delicious here. You could even mix both cuts for a balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This recipe comes together with a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. They combine to create a glossy, sweet-and-savory sauce that clings to every bite of chicken.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts
Honey
Gluten-Free Soy Sauce (Tamari)
Fresh Garlic
Ketchup
Apple Cider Vinegar
Cornstarch + Water
Sesame Seeds and Green Onions (for garnish)

The honey adds natural sweetness, balanced by the tang of vinegar and the umami depth of gluten-free soy sauce. Garlic adds punch, and the ketchup adds color and richness. Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce to coat every bite.

Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken (1)

How To Make the Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, gluten-free soy sauce, minced garlic, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar until well combined. This is your magic mixture that gives the dish all its bold flavor.

Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker

Place your chicken thighs or breasts into the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and fork-tender. You should be able to easily shred it with two forks.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker and stir well. Turn the heat to high and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Shred and Serve

Shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks. Mix well to coat all the pieces in that sticky, flavorful sauce. Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

How to Serve and Store Gluten-Free Honey Garlic Chicken

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes and what you serve it with. Spoon it over a bed of white or brown rice, or for something lighter, go with cauliflower rice or lettuce cups. It’s also fantastic inside gluten-free wraps for a quick lunch the next day.

To store, let leftovers cool completely and place in an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Honey Garlic Chicken?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Classic and comforting, jasmine rice soaks up all that sticky honey garlic sauce perfectly.

Garlic Roasted Broccoli

The mellow crunch and flavor of roasted broccoli make a great side for this saucy chicken.

Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light, fluffy, and keeps the dish gluten-free and keto-friendly.

Stir-Fried Green Beans

Crisp-tender green beans tossed in sesame oil add a nutty note that pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool, crunchy cucumbers in a sesame vinaigrette bring a fresh contrast to the warm chicken.

Sweet Potato Mash

A creamy sweet base balances the tangy, garlicky chicken beautifully.

Gluten-Free Egg Rolls

Add a crispy bite on the side with these savory rolls filled with cabbage and carrots.

Want More Chicken Ideas With Bold Flavor?

If you’re into meals that bring the wow factor without much effort, try out some of these favorites from Mia Plates:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with chicken thighs or breasts? Did you spice it up or keep it sweet?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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