If you’re looking for a comforting, hands-off dinner that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, then this Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe is a must-try. Juicy, tender chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection with a smoky paprika and herb seasoning create a dish that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re coming home after a busy day or hosting a casual meal, this recipe promises a hearty, flavorful experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. You’ll find that with just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels special and totally comforting.
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The bone and skin keep the meat juicy and add rich flavor during slow cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing and locking in a golden, crispy skin.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that balances the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a warm, savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives the dish that signature smoky, vibrant color and taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a fragrant, earthy note that rounds out the spices.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates a flavorful cooking liquid.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Used for thickening the cooking juices into a luscious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cold water (optional): Helps dissolve the cornstarch for an even, smooth sauce.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, which helps the seasonings stick and the skin crisp up during searing. Mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme in a small bowl, then rub the blend all over each piece of chicken. This spice mix is the backbone of that irresistibly smoky and savory flavor you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Thighs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until that skin turns a beautiful golden brown. This searing step isn’t just about looks—it locks in juices and layers in flavor that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.
Step 3: Transfer and Add Broth
Carefully move the seared chicken to your crock pot, placing each piece skin-side up to keep the skin crispy. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crock pot, avoiding the skin so it doesn’t get soggy. This broth will infuse the chicken with moisture as it cooks low and slow.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook the chicken on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the chicken becomes fall-off-the-bone tender, soaking up the smoky seasoning and the rich juices. The aroma filling your home will be an irresistible preview of the meal ahead.
Step 5: Optional Sauce Thickening
If you want a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and whisk together cornstarch and cold water. Stir this into the liquid in the crock pot and cook on high for another 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens into a silky gravy that’s perfect for spooning over your chicken or sides.
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving brightens the dish and introduces a fresh, green pop of color. A few lemon wedges on the side can also add a nice burst of brightness that balances the smoky richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a simple buttered noodle dish to soak up all that luscious sauce. For freshness and texture contrast, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of sautéed greens and drizzle with the thickened sauce. Or shred the chicken and use it in tacos or wraps for an easy yet impressive meal that stretches the Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe into multiple delicious options.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover chicken and juices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors mellow and deepen overnight, making for even tastier leftovers that stay good for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled chicken and some of the cooking liquid in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for the best texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving for better tenderness and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless thighs, but since they cook faster, reduce the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat. The bones do help retain moisture, so if using boneless, keep an eye on the texture.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?
Searing is optional but highly recommended. It adds a delicious crust and depth of flavor that slow cooking alone won’t achieve, making the dish extra tasty.
Can I make this recipe without the skin?
Absolutely! Removing the skin reduces fat content, and the chicken will still be flavorful and tender due to the slow cooking, though you won’t get the crispy skin texture.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Try adding sliced onions, garlic cloves, or even a splash of white wine to the crock pot for added depth and aroma. Fresh herbs at the end also really elevate the dish.
How do I thicken the sauce if I skip the cornstarch?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can reduce the cooking liquid by cooking it uncovered on high for longer to naturally thicken, or stir in a small amount of flour mixed with butter for a quick roux.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to adore this Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe for its ease and heartwarming flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with minimal effort and maximum reward. Give it a try, and soon it will be one of your favorite go-to dinners to share with family and friends.
Print
Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender and flavorful crock pot chicken thighs slow-cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices and a rich, savory broth. This easy slow cooker recipe delivers juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken that makes a perfect hassle-free dinner, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon cold water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure they sear properly and get crispy skin.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly all over the chicken thighs to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This step adds depth of flavor and texture.
- Transfer to Crock Pot: Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the crock pot, arranging them skin-side up to maintain crispiness.
- Add Broth: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the bottom of the crock pot carefully, avoiding pouring it directly onto the chicken skin to preserve the seared texture.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Optional Thickening: To thicken the cooking juices, remove the chicken and mix together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir this slurry into the crock pot liquid and cook on high for another 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Serve the chicken warm with the thickened sauce spooned over, pairing well with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- You can remove the skin prior to cooking for a lower-fat option.
- For extra flavor, add sliced onions or whole garlic cloves to the crock pot along with the chicken.
- Bone-in thighs are preferred for juicier results, but boneless thighs can be used; adjust cooking time accordingly.
