Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, tangy honey Dijon sauce. This mouthwatering slow cooker recipe is about to become your new weeknight dinner hero – combining minimal effort with maximum flavor that will have your entire family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking for an easy meal, or simply someone who loves restaurant-quality dishes without the complicated preparation, this Honey Dijon Chicken over Garlic Pasta is your culinary salvation.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined, creating a smooth marinade sauce.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Pour the honey Dijon mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each breast is thoroughly coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 5-6 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- About 20 minutes before serving, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta is cooking, remove chicken from slow cooker and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice or shred the chicken as desired.
- Drain pasta and toss with minced garlic and a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Plate the garlic pasta and top with the honey Dijon chicken.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips
- Chicken Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Marinade Magic: Whisk the honey and Dijon mustard thoroughly to create a smooth, well-integrated sauce that will coat the chicken evenly.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal tenderness.
- Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta al dente and toss with garlic and olive oil just before serving to prevent clumping.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish that elevates the entire dish's presentation and flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
