These Easy Crockpot Chicken Thighs are a breeze to make and packed with flavor! Just toss the thighs in the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and let it do the work.
The chicken turns out super tender, perfect for family meals. I love serving it with rice or veggies, and the leftovers make fantastic sandwiches. Yum! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are best for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender. If you’re short on time, boneless thighs will work fine too, but keep an eye on cooking times as they may cook quicker.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. If you prefer, vegetable broth can also be used for a lighter option. Just avoid low-sodium versions if you want a richer flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is lovely here, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch. About a teaspoon of powder equals one clove.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds a great depth. Regular paprika is fine if you don’t have smoked. Feel free to tweak the spices to match your taste as well!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness as it cooks down, but shallots or leeks can also be delicious alternatives.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
Getting tender chicken in a crockpot is simple! The key is to cook it low and slow. Here’s how:
- Seasoning: Rub the spice mixture well over each piece. This ensures flavor gets into every bite.
- Layering: Put sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. This helps the chicken cook evenly and adds flavor.
- Cooking Time: Stick to 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for perfectly tender thighs. Don’t rush it!
- Optional Crisp: If you love crispy skin, broil the cooked chicken for a few minutes. It adds a nice contrast to the tender meat.
With these tips, you’ll serve up chicken that’s sure to please the whole family!
Easy Crockpot Chicken Thighs for Tender Family Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
For the Veggies:
- 1 small onion, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and then you’ll need to cook it in the crockpot. If you cook on low, it will take about 6-7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high will take about 3-4 hours. It’s perfect for a day at home or running errands!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if you want a little kick). Stir well to create a seasoning mix.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the seasoning mixture and rub it all over the chicken thighs, making sure they are well coated. This will add tons of flavor!
3. Prepare the Crockpot:
Slice the onion and place the slices in the bottom of your crockpot. This will add flavor and create a nice bed for the chicken.
4. Layer the Chicken:
Now, arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the sliced onions in the crockpot.
5. Add Liquid:
Pour the chicken broth and olive oil over the chicken. This will help keep it juicy and add moisture as it cooks.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s done when the chicken is tender and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
7. Optional Crispy Skin:
If you love crispy skin, once the chicken is cooked, place the thighs under the broiler in your oven for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Finishing Touches:
Garnish your delicious chicken with fresh chopped parsley before serving. It adds a nice color and freshness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a comforting family meal. Enjoy your tasty creation!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just remember they may cook a bit faster—check for doneness at around 3 hours on high or 5 hours on low. They should still reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth works well as a flavorful alternative. You can also use water, but consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a bouillon cube for added flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
