Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

Description

This Crock Pot Chicken Thighs recipe is the ultimate comfort food—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Slow-cooked in a savory blend of garlic, onion, and herbs, the chicken practically falls off the bone. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Thighs

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning)

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth (or low-sodium stock)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)

• 1 tbsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Optional Browning – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken thighs (skin-side down first) for 3–4 minutes per side for extra flavor.

2. Prepare Crock Pot – Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.

3. Season Chicken – Sprinkle chicken with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Layer & Add Liquid – Place chicken thighs on top of onions. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey.

5. Cook – Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

6. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in thighs have more flavor, but boneless work if you need a quicker cook time.

• Skin-on for Flavor: The skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor, but you can remove it for a leaner dish.

• Extra Sauce: Double the broth and seasoning if you want more gravy for serving.

Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange chicken in a single layer for even cooking.

• For Crispy Skin: After slow cooking, place chicken under a broiler for 3–4 minutes to crisp up the skin.

• Thicker Sauce: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water, stir into the crock pot in the last 30 minutes.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Servings

Serves: 4–6 people
Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving, skin-on)

• Calories: ~280 kcal

• Protein: 22 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 4 g

• Fiber: 0 g

• Sugar: 2 g

• Sodium: ~380 mg

Health Benefits

• High in Protein – Supports muscle repair and satiety.

• Slow Cooking – Retains nutrients and moisture in the meat.

• Rich in Flavor – Less need for added salt or processed sauces.

• Customizable – Can be made keto, low-carb, or gluten-free with small adjustments.

Q & A

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
A: Yes, but thaw first for food safety and even cooking.

Q2: Can I make this recipe spicy?
A: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce to the broth.

Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
A: Yes! Carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms work great—add them under the chicken so they soak up the juices.

Q5: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: It’s naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add butter for extra richness.