Juicy & Flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs – So Easy!

Craving a delicious, juicy chicken dinner but short on time? Look no further! These slow cooker chicken thighs are packed with flavor, incredibly tender, and ridiculously easy to make. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken thighs are naturally moist and full of flavor, making them the perfect choice for slow cooking. Plus, the ingredients in this recipe create a rich, mouthwatering sauce that pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or your favorite vegetables. Here’s why this recipe will be your new go-to:

• Set-it-and-forget-it simplicity – Perfect for busy days!
• Healthy and protein-packed – No frying involved, so it’s nutritious and flavorful.
• Incredibly juicy and tender – Slow cooking keeps the chicken thighs super moist.

Let’s dive into the recipe details and a few pro tips for making the best slow cooker chicken thighs ever!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken thighs – Bone-in or boneless, but bone-in thighs bring out more flavor!
• Olive oil – For a rich, savory flavor.
• Garlic – Adds a nice kick of flavor. Feel free to adjust to taste.
• Paprika – Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth.
• Onion powder – Essential for a well-rounded taste.
• Salt and pepper – To season.
• Chicken broth – Enhances the flavor and keeps the thighs moist.
• Honey or brown sugar – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Soy sauce – Adds depth and richness.
• Thyme or rosemary (optional) – For an aromatic finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is as easy as it gets, but here’s a quick breakdown:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

• Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Season both sides of each thigh with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
• Pro Tip: If you have a few extra minutes, lightly brown the thighs in a skillet with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This gives the chicken a richer flavor and slightly crisp texture.

Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

• Place the seasoned thighs in the slow cooker.
• In a small bowl, mix together garlic, honey or brown sugar, soy sauce, and chicken broth.
• Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs.

Step 3: Cook on Low

• Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 6-7 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Pro Tip: For quicker results, cook on high for 3-4 hours. However, cooking on low produces the juiciest, most tender meat.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

• Once the thighs are fully cooked, transfer them to a plate.
• To thicken the sauce, turn your slow cooker to high and let the sauce simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. You can also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Return the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the sauce for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for an elegant finish.

Serving Suggestions

These flavorful slow cooker chicken thighs pair well with many sides! Here are a few ideas:

• Steamed rice or mashed potatoes – Great for soaking up that rich sauce.
• Roasted veggies – Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans are delicious.
• Pasta – For a heartier meal, serve the thighs over your favorite pasta.

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

• Choose bone-in thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, although boneless thighs work as well.
• Season generously before cooking. The slow cooker mellows flavors over time, so don’t be afraid to season well!
• Keep the lid on! Opening the lid during cooking releases heat and adds extra cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster, so check them around the 4-hour mark if cooking on low.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an incredibly easy, super juicy, and flavor-packed slow cooker chicken thigh recipe that will quickly become a favorite! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or preparing a cozy dinner, these slow-cooked chicken thighs are a winner every time.