Go Back

Crockpot Chicken Thighs

These Crockpot chicken thighs are super simple to prepare and leave you with tender, juicy meat that’s bursting with flavor.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

Seasoning

  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (not extra virgin)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup chicken stock or chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for sauce thickening)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Chicken - Start by seasoning your chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels and sprinkle salt and pepper over them, ensuring they’re well-coated.
  • Step 2: Sear the Chicken - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
  • Step 3: Make the Flavor Base - Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chicken stock, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
  • Step 4: Load Up the Crockpot - Now it’s time to transfer everything to the crockpot! Pour the flavor base over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece of chicken is coated with that delicious mixture.
  • Step 5: Slow Cook - Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about 6-7 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
  • Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional) - If you want a thicker sauce to drizzle over your chicken, combine the cornstarch with water in a small bowl. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the crockpot and set it aside. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the remaining liquid in the crockpot and let it cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until thickened.
  • Step 7: Serve and Enjoy! - Return the chicken to the crockpot to soak up some of that delicious sauce before serving. Pair with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

For maximum flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning mixture overnight. Feel free to use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Keyword Easy