The Ultimate High-Protein Honey Garlic Shredded Chicken (Instant Pot & Slow Cooker)

Finding healthy recipes that are simultaneously high in protein, quick to prep, and flavor-packed can feel like a challenge. If you are looking for an easy meal-prep staple that hits your macros without sacrificing flavor, this Honey Garlic Shredded Chicken is guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.

It strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and rich garlic-ginger goodness. With 42 grams of protein per serving, it fuels your recovery while keeping prep time under 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Macro-Friendly Powerhouse: Delivering 42g of high-quality protein with only 5g of fat, this dish makes hitting your daily protein targets effortless.

• Set-It-and-Forget-It Simplicity: Works seamlessly in either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot.

• Meal Prep Hero: Cooks up in bulk and stays juicy in the fridge all week long without drying out.

• Versatile Serving Options: Pairs easily with roasted vegetables, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here is everything you need to make 6 hearty, high-protein servings:

• Chicken Breast: 2.5 lbs (boneless, skinless)

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos: 1/2 cup

• Honey: 1/3 cup

• Tomato Paste: 3 tbsp (adds rich depth and umami)

• Fresh Garlic: 6 cloves, minced

• Fresh Ginger: 1 tbsp, grated

• Sesame Oil: 1 tbsp

• Sriracha: 1 tsp (optional, for a subtle kick)

• Thickening Slurry: 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp cold water

• Garnish: Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), honey, tomato paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and sriracha until smooth.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

Method A: Slow Cooker

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken.

3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and pulls apart easily.

Method B: Instant Pot

1. Place the chicken breasts into the Instant Pot insert and pour the whisked sauce over top.

2. Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 12 minutes.

3. Allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully vent any remaining steam.

Step 3: Shred & Thickening the Sauce

1. Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a cutting board or large bowl and shred using two forks.

2. Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry directly into the liquid remaining in the pot.

   • Instant Pot users: Turn on the Sauté function and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until rich and glossy.

   • Slow Cooker users: Set to High and let simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes until thickened.

3. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and toss well so every bite is coated in sauce.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with plenty of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot!

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

• Yield: 6 servings

• Calories: ~310 kcal

• Protein: 42 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fat: 5 g

How to Serve & Meal Prep

• Classic Bowl: Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice with a side of roasted broccoli or sugar snap peas.

• Low-Carb / Volume Focus: Pair with fluffy cauliflower rice, steamed zucchini, or sautéed cabbage to keep carbs lower while maximizing meal volume.

• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in airtight glass containers in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep the meat tender and juicy.

Give this simple, delicious dish a try for your next meal prep session!