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Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

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3.9 from 69 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are a deliciously tender and juicy dish seasoned with a blend of herbs, garlic, and paprika. This easy-to-prepare recipe requires minimal hands-on time and slow cooks the chicken until perfectly tender, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The savory chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and can be customized with added vegetables or different seasoning blends.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Liquid and Aromatics

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture for better searing. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the chicken thighs for about 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step enhances flavor and color but is optional.
  3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer.
  4. Add Aromatics and Broth: Add minced garlic to the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth around the chicken thighs to keep them moist during cooking.
  5. Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender, fully cooked, and easily pierced with a fork.
  6. Finish the Dish: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. Spoon some of the flavorful cooking juices over the chicken, then drizzle fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
  7. Serve: Serve the chicken warm with your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Searing the chicken is optional but adds extra flavor and a better appearance.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, onions, mushrooms, or potatoes to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal.
  • Use bone-in thighs for juicier, more flavorful chicken, or boneless thighs for easier shredding.
  • Thaw frozen chicken fully before slow cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently with cooking juices to maintain moisture.
  • This dish can easily be made keto-friendly by pairing it with low-carb sides.
  • For a variation in flavor, try using Italian seasoning or smoked paprika.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/slow-cooker-chicken-thighs-recipe/