Dinner just got a whole lot easier with these tender, juicy slow cooker chicken thighs. This recipe is a true weeknight winner, perfect for busy evenings when you want a delicious, hands-off meal. You’ll love how flavorful and simple it is to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for flavor and moisture, but boneless, skinless can also be used (adjust cooking time slightly).
- Onion: Yellow or white onion will do.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium is always a good choice. Water can be substituted if you don’t have broth.
- Seasonings: Paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper are essential for great flavor. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high OR 6-8 hours on low
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick and gives a better texture. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
2. Layer Your Ingredients
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly on the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base for the slow cooker chicken thighs. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion and garlic.
3. Add Liquid and Cook
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken thighs. Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the slow cooker chicken thighs from the slow cooker. You can spoon some of the flavorful cooking liquid over the chicken when serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy meal!
Storage Instructions:
Leftover slow cooker chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in an oven until heated through. The chicken stays wonderfully moist even after reheating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can! They might cook a little faster, so check for doneness around 2.5-3 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low.
Do I need to brown the chicken first?
No, you don’t! The beauty of slow cooker chicken thighs is that you don’t need to sear them beforehand. The slow cooker will make them incredibly tender without that extra step.
What can I serve with slow cooker chicken thighs?
These slow cooker chicken thighs are great with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or a side of steamed vegetables. A simple green salad also pairs well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate all the slow cooker chicken thighs in a single layer or a loose double layer for even cooking.
My slow cooker chicken thighs are dry, what went wrong?
This usually happens if they are overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if using boneless, skinless chicken. Using bone-in, skin-on thighs also helps keep them moist.
Can I freeze cooked slow cooker chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Once cooled, transfer the cooked chicken thighs and some of the cooking liquid to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
