Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are the answer. This recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and taste, with tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered to perfection in a savory broth infused with garlic, butter, and a blend of herbs. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious, hassle-free dinner that is guaranteed to please. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, these chicken thighs are sure to be a hit.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the rich flavors that develop while cooking. The bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs stay incredibly moist, while the seasoning mix of garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning adds depth to each bite. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is simple to prepare and perfect for a stress-free meal. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless: Prepare it in the morning and let the slow cooker do the work—no need for constant attention.
2. Tender and Juicy: The bone-in, skin-on thighs result in moist and flavorful chicken.
3. Flavorful: A perfect balance of seasonings, garlic, and butter infuses the chicken with deliciousness.
4. Versatile: Serve with rice, potatoes, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and can be easily reheated for a quick meal later.

Ingredients

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth
• Butter (diced)
• Garlic cloves (minced)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley

Variations

• Boneless, Skinless Thighs: You can use boneless, skinless thighs for a leaner version, but the bone-in version adds more flavor and moisture.
• Add Veggies: Throw in some chopped potatoes, carrots, or onions to cook along with the chicken for a one-pot meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Herb Variation: Swap the Italian seasoning for a blend of thyme, rosemary, and sage for a different flavor profile.
• Crispy Skin: If you prefer crispy skin, you can broil the chicken thighs for a few minutes after they are done cooking in the slow cooker.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Season the chicken thighs by rubbing them with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown. This step helps to lock in flavor but is optional.

Step 3

Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, minced garlic, and diced butter on top of the chicken.

Step 4

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5

Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken skin adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden brown exterior.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a more intense flavor compared to garlic powder.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: If you’re making more than one batch, ensure the chicken thighs are placed in a single layer for even cooking.
• Check the Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to make sure it has reached 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
• Add More Flavor: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar after cooking for a fresh burst of flavor.

How to Serve

• Serve these chicken thighs with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal.
• Pair with rice or couscous to soak up the flavorful broth.
• For a lighter meal, serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Top with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will continue to absorb the delicious flavors from the broth as it sits.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container with some of the cooking juices and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken thighs in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. You can also reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, adding a little chicken broth if needed to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs will cook faster and have slightly less flavor, but they can be used as a substitute.

2. Can I skip searing the chicken?

Yes, you can skip the searing step, but searing adds a rich flavor and helps crisp the skin.

3. What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken goes great with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad.

4. Can I cook this on high heat in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook on high for 2-3 hours if you’re in a hurry, but low heat will yield the most tender results.

5. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or onions to the slow cooker. Just chop them and place them under the chicken to cook along with it.

6. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Chicken breast will cook faster but might become dry in the slow cooker. If using chicken breast, check for doneness earlier.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken thighs along with the broth for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

9. Can I cook this recipe without butter?

Yes, you can omit the butter if you prefer a dairy-free version or use olive oil as a substitute.

10. How can I make the skin crispy after cooking in the slow cooker?

If you want crispy skin, broil the chicken thighs for 3-5 minutes after they are done cooking in the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs is an easy and flavorful dish that combines convenience with delicious results. The chicken thighs come out tender and juicy, with a savory garlic and butter-infused broth that enhances the natural flavors of the meat. This recipe is perfect for busy days, and the leftovers make a great meal for the next day. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these slow-cooked chicken thighs are sure to become a favorite in your home.

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