Pin it The smell of honey and mustard slowly caramelizing together has this way of making the whole house feel cozy, like something good is happening even before dinner time. I discovered this recipe during one of those weeks when everything felt too busy and I needed something that would actually taste like I cared about cooking, even though I barely had time to think. Now it is my go-to for days when I want comfort food that mostly takes care of itself.
Last winter my sister came over after a terrible day at work and I had this bubbling away in the slow cooker. She took one bite of that velvety honey mustard sauce over the chicken and just stopped talking for a minute, which is saying something. Sometimes food is exactly what someone needs to remember that things can be okay again.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: About 1.5 to 2 pounds works perfectly for even cooking without drying out
- ½ cup Dijon mustard: This creates the smooth tangy base that balances the honey beautifully
- ⅓ cup honey: Use a mild honey so it does not overpower the other flavors
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard: Adds those little pops of texture and extra mustard kick
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Cuts through the sweetness and brightens everything up
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: My secret ingredient for that savory depth nobody can quite place
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic makes such a difference here, do not skip it
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the savory notes without adding texture
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: Just a subtle warmth in the background
- ¼ teaspoon salt and black pepper: Enough to enhance but not dominate
- ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth: Thins the sauce slightly without watering down flavor
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Essential for that luxurious thickened finish
- 2 tablespoons cold water: Must be cold to mix smoothly with cornstarch
Instructions
- Prep the chicken:
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and pat them completely dry with paper towels so the sauce clings properly.
- Make the sauce base:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until completely smooth and combined.
- Add the aromatics:
- Stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth until the mixture is uniform.
- Start the slow cooker:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single, even layer.
- Coat everything:
- Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken, turning each piece to ensure it is well coated on all sides.
- Let it cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 to 2½ hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Rest the meat:
- About 15 minutes before serving, carefully remove the chicken breasts and set them aside on a plate, covered loosely with foil.
- Thicken the sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a smooth slurry with no lumps.
- Finish the sauce:
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker, turn to high, cover and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Bring it together:
- Return the chicken to the slow cooker, spoon the thickened sauce over the top, and reheat for 2 to 3 minutes before serving hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Pin it This recipe has saved me more times than I can count, especially on those nights when ordering takeout feels like giving up. There is something deeply satisfying about coming home to a meal that has been patiently waiting for you all day.
Make It Your Own
I once added fresh thyme on a whim and it transformed the whole dish into something that felt restaurant quality. Fresh herbs really do make everything feel more special without much extra effort.
Leftover Magic
The chicken shreds so beautifully after sitting in that sauce overnight, making the most incredible sandwich filling you have ever tasted. I actually look forward to the leftovers almost as much as the first meal.
Serving Ideas
Rice soaks up every drop of that sauce, but mashed potatoes are honestly where it is at for pure comfort. Sometimes I roast whatever vegetables are in the crisper drawer and call it dinner.
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly
- Crusty bread is basically essential for sopping up any sauce left on your plate
- Steamed green beans add a nice fresh element to balance the heavy sauce
Pin it This is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you have your life together, even on the days when you definitely do not.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. If using thighs, cook them for approximately 3½–4 hours on low until tender.
- → How do I thicken the sauce at the end?
About 15 minutes before serving, remove the chicken, then whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a smooth slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker, turn to high, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
This dish is wonderfully versatile. It pairs excellently with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, allowing the rich sauce to be fully enjoyed.
- → Can I add more flavor or spice to the sauce?
Absolutely! For added depth, consider stirring in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary. If you prefer a bit of heat, a ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be incorporated into the sauce mixture.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats well and the shredded chicken is excellent for sandwiches or wraps.
- → Is this a gluten-free meal?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this meal is designed to be gluten-free. Always double-check labels for any ingredients, especially Worcestershire sauce, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.