Let me tell you, there’s something magical about cooking chicken thighs in a crockpot! It’s like giving your busy day a warm hug with the promise of a delicious meal waiting for you. I remember the first time I made this recipe; I was juggling work and family commitments, and the thought of cooking felt overwhelming. But oh boy, did I feel like a superhero when I came home to the aroma of savory chicken wafting through the house! This simple and flavorful chicken thighs crockpot recipe has become my go-to for its ease and mouthwatering results. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it! The chicken turns out tender and juicy every single time, and you’ll be amazed at how little work it takes. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Chicken Thighs Crockpot
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
How to Prepare Chicken Thighs Crockpot
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making these chicken thighs in your trusty crockpot! First things first, grab a large skillet and heat up the 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. While that’s warming, season your 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. This is where the flavor starts to shine!
Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down, and let them sear for about 3-4 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. Flip them over and give the other side the same treatment. After that, transfer the seared thighs to your crockpot.
Now, pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle in the 2 cloves of minced garlic. This combo is going to infuse your chicken with incredible flavor as it cooks. Cover your crockpot and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken thighs turn out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, don’t skip the searing step; it adds such depth of flavor and that gorgeous color. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip it, but I promise it’s worth the extra effort!
Also, feel free to adjust the seasoning to match your taste. Want it spicier? Throw in some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce! And if you like a little sweetness, a drizzle of honey can work wonders too.
Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time; every crockpot is a little different. Check your chicken about halfway through if you’re unsure. You want it to be tender and juicy but not falling apart. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these chicken thighs! Just a quick note: nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these numbers as a general guide. For a serving size of one thigh, you’re looking at around 250 calories, which is pretty reasonable for such a hearty meal!
Here’s the breakdown:
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 300mg
With all that protein, this dish is not only delicious but also filling! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add vegetables to the chicken thighs crockpot?
Absolutely, you can! Adding veggies not only boosts nutrition but also makes the dish a complete meal. I love tossing in chopped carrots, potatoes, or even bell peppers. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and place them at the bottom of the crockpot before adding the chicken. This way, they’ll soak up all that delicious broth as everything cooks together. You can also experiment with green beans or peas during the last hour of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender!
How can I adjust the cooking time?
Great question! Cooking time can vary based on your crockpot’s size and model. If you’re using a smaller model, it might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it. Typically, the chicken should be perfectly cooked in about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. If you’re unsure, check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Don’t hesitate to sneak a peek about an hour before the suggested time to make sure it’s not overcooking!
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but there are a couple of adjustments to make! If they’re still frozen, you’ll want to cook them on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the regular time. Just remember, the flavor may not be as rich since you won’t be searing them first. If possible, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results before cooking, and they’ll soak up all those yummy flavors beautifully!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken thighs crockpot recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your crockpot and walk away!
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot means less mess. Just toss everything in and let it do the work for you.
- Delicious Flavors: The slow cooking melds the spices and broth into the chicken, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Meal: You can easily customize with your favorite veggies or spices, making it suitable for any palate.
- Perfectly Tender Chicken: The crockpot creates ultra-tender chicken that practically falls off the bone!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your delicious chicken thighs crockpot, the sky’s the limit! Here are some simple and delightful ideas that will elevate your meal experience:
- Steamed Rice: A fluffy bed of rice is perfect for soaking up all that savory broth. You can use white, brown, or even jasmine rice for a fragrant touch!
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that luscious cooking broth on top!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them for a colorful and healthy side dish.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and maybe a sprinkle of feta for extra flair!
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up the flavorful juices. Trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind!
Mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Each option will complement the chicken thighs perfectly, creating a satisfying and heartwarming meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover chicken thighs crockpot is super easy, and it’s a great way to enjoy those delicious flavors again! First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Make sure to include some of that savory broth to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it! Just portion out the chicken with the broth in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it’ll last for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
For reheating, you can use the microwave or the stovetop. If you’re using the microwave, cover the container to retain moisture and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between. On the stovetop, simply place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, and warm it gently. This way, your chicken will stay juicy and delicious!
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Chicken Thighs Crockpot: 5 Secrets to Tender Perfection
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful chicken thighs recipe cooked in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
- Sear chicken thighs in the pan for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Place the seared chicken in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning based on your preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken thighs crockpot
