Slow-Cooked Savory Crockpot Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 3 cloves of minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Steps and instructions

  1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side down, and cook until golden brown. This should take about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  5. Add the chicken broth, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  6. Transfer the mixture from the skillet to the crockpot.
  7. Add the browned chicken thighs to the crockpot, making sure they are fully submerged in the liquid.
  8. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours.
  9. Once cooked, transfer the chicken thighs to a serving plate.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve.

Tools for making

  • Skillet - A frying pan with a flat bottom and short sides, used for browning the chicken thighs.
  • Crockpot - A slow cooker used for cooking the chicken thighs over a longer period of time.
  • Knife - Used for mincing the garlic and chopping fresh parsley, if desired.
  • Cutting Board - A flat surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Tools for accurately measuring the dried herbs and spices.
  • Zester - A tool used for zesting the lemon.
  • Citrus Juicer - Used to extract juice from the lemon.
  • Serving Plate - A plate or dish for presenting the cooked chicken thighs.

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
  • Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Add diced tomatoes and bell peppers to the crockpot for a more flavorful dish.
  • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken thighs before cooking for a cheesy twist.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as paprika, cumin, or thyme, to customize the flavor profile.
  • Add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a tangy kick.
  • Include sliced mushrooms in the crockpot for an earthy taste.
  • Replace the olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
  • Serve the chicken thighs over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes instead of on their own.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the succulent flavors of these Crockpot Chicken Thighs. This dish is all about simplicity and robust flavors, featuring bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs slowly cooked in a flavorful broth of herbs and lemon. The result is tender, juicy chicken that literally falls off the bone, soaked in a beautifully zesty and aromatic sauce. This crockpot recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need a hearty meal but have little time to spend in the kitchen. Just prep, set, and let the slow cooker do its magic! Enjoy this dish garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Common questions

  1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the crockpot to prevent overcooking.
  2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily, so they may not be as tender and flavorful as thighs.
  3. Can I add vegetables to the crockpot? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the crockpot along with the chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness.
  4. Can I make this recipe without a crockpot? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. After browning the chicken and cooking the garlic in a skillet, add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. After cooking, let the chicken thighs cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs for up to 2-3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - To brown the chicken thighs before transferring them to the crockpot.
  • Crockpot - The main cooking vessel to slow-cook the chicken thighs.
  • Serving Plate - To present and serve the cooked chicken thighs.
  • Tongs - To transfer the chicken thighs from the skillet to the crockpot.
  • Spatula - To stir the ingredients in the skillet and transfer them to the crockpot.
  • Knife - To zest and juice the lemon, and for any other necessary food prep.
  • Cutting Board - To cut and prepare the lemon, if required.
  • Measuring Spoons - To measure and add the various dried herbs and spices.
  • Ladle - To serve the cooking liquid over the chicken thighs, if desired.

Origin stories

Crockpot cooking, also known as slow cooking, has a rich history with roots in many cultures, such as Moroccan tagines and Hungarian goulash. The modern day crockpot was introduced to the market in the 1970s by the brand Rival, under the name "Crock-Pot." On the other hand, chicken thighs are a beloved ingredient worldwide due to their juicy and tender meat. This recipe brings together the ease of crockpot cooking and the rich flavors of chicken thighs, creating a dish that is hearty and satisfying. The use of herbs and lemon is reminiscent of Mediterranean cooking, which is known for its fresh and aromatic flavors. So, when you're enjoying your Crockpot Chicken Thighs, remember that you're partaking in a culinary tradition that's been passed down through generations and across cultures.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.