This Easy Crock Pot Chicken Thighs recipe is a dream for busy days! Simply season the chicken, toss it in the slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you relax.
The chicken turns so juicy and tender, you’ll definitely want seconds. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze—just one pot! I love to serve it over rice or noodles for a cozy meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs bring great flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, skinless, just reduce the cooking time. But remember, bone-in keeps it juicier!
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add a base level of flavor that’s essential. If you don’t have these, fresh minced garlic and chopped onions work too—just cook them briefly before adding to the pot to soften them up.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work, although the taste will be different. You could also try adding a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
Cooking Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for searing, but you can use any cooking oil you like, such as canola or vegetable oil. Just make sure it has a high smoke point for searing.
How Do I Achieve Tender and Flavorful Chicken?
The key to tender chicken is slow cooking. By doing so, the chicken not only cooks evenly but also soaks up all the flavors from the spices and broth. Here are some important tips:
- Pat the chicken dry to help it brown nicely during searing.
- Don’t rush the searing; it adds lots of flavor to the dish.
- Use broth or stock instead of water for a richer taste. You could even add in vegetables like carrots and onions into the slow cooker for extra flavor!
Follow this technique and you’ll have delicious chicken thighs ready to enjoy!
Easy Crock Pot Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for cooking. Perfect for a full day of lounging or a busy day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful seasoning mix for the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice, golden crust. Now, rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they are evenly coated.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in the skillet skin-side down. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes. This step is optional but adds great flavor and color!
4. Transfer to Crock Pot:
Now, place the seared chicken thighs into the crock pot, arranging them so they fit nicely. Pour the chicken broth around the thighs to keep everything juicy and add flavor.
5. Start Cooking:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is tender and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Crisp the Skin (Optional):
If you’d like extra crispy skin, you can take the chicken thighs out of the crock pot after cooking and place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on them!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley if you like. Serve warm with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh vegetable medley. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, as they cook faster without the bone.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water. For added flavor, consider mixing in a splash of soy sauce or adding some herbs and spices to the water.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference for the perfect kick!