Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight meals? Look no further! Chicken thighs are a staple in many households, and when cooked to perfection in a crockpot, they can be transformed into a wide variety of delicious dishes. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors, we’ve got you covered with these 20 flavorful chicken thigh recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of slow-cooked chicken thighs and share some mouthwatering ideas that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and tangy or savory and spicy, we’ve got a recipe to suit your cravings.
So, grab your crockpot and get ready to cook up some serious comfort food magic! In this article, we’ll dive into our top 20 recipes for chicken thighs cooked in a crockpot. From honey garlic to Thai peanut, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become new family favorites.
Honey Garlic Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Transform your chicken thighs with a flavorful and easy-to-make crockpot recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory taste of garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the honey-garlic mixture over them.
4. Add the chicken broth to the crockpot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and flavorful slow cooker recipe. With minimal prep time and tender, fall-apart chicken, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they’re coated in the BBQ mixture.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the chicken to redistribute the sauce and ensure even coating.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs in Crockpot
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and rich cream, all cooked to perfection in the crockpot. Serve with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In the crockpot, combine olive oil, onion, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
3. Add the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream to the crockpot. Stir well.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot, making sure they’re covered with the creamy sauce.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-3 hours (depending on temperature setting)
Spicy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Thighs
A spicy twist on traditional buffalo wings, these crockpot chicken thighs are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the crockpot and toss to coat with the spicy mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
5. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Pineapple
This recipe combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a deliciously harmonious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, place pineapple chunks on top of the chicken and return to the oven.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken thighs, these slow-cooked delights are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and herbs.
2. In the slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and garnish with parsley.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this creamy and aromatic recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, combine chicken thighs, garlic, cream cheese, and parmesan cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from crockpot and garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mexican Crockpot Chicken Thighs with Black Beans
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the convenience of a crockpot, resulting in tender and juicy chicken thighs cooked to perfection with creamy black beans.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Place the cooked onion mixture at the bottom of a crockpot. Arrange the chicken thighs on top.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, followed by the black beans.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
This comforting recipe is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, satisfying meal. With minimal prep and no fuss, this slow cooker dish will become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Thai Peanut Chicken Thighs in Crockpot
Thai Peanut Chicken Thighs Crockpot Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the ease of a crockpot, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add chicken thighs and stir until coated with the peanut mixture.
3. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Balsamic Glazed Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your slow-cooked chicken with a rich and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the glaze over the top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and brush with any remaining glaze.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Green Beans
A deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for a busy day. With minimal prep time and a long cooking period, this recipe is a great way to get a healthy dinner on the table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In the slow cooker, layer the chicken, green beans, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Moist chicken thighs smothered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting dinner or lunch. This Crockpot recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in the Crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, tomato paste, and oregano.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Thighs
Add a spicy twist to your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and flavorful slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
3. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Maple Dijon Crockpot Chicken Thighs
Maple Dijon Crockpot Chicken Thighs: A sweet and tangy twist on classic crockpot chicken!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth until well combined.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the maple-mustard mixture over them.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Rice and Peas
A comforting and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy day, this slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken thighs with fluffy rice and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of green peas, drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, rice, chicken broth, peas, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About an hour before serving, stir the mixture to ensure everything is well combined.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crockpot Chicken Thighs in Mushroom Gravy
Savory Crockpot Chicken Thighs in Mushroom Gravy Recipe
This recipe is a comforting and flavorful twist on classic chicken thighs, cooked to tender perfection in the slow cooker with rich mushroom gravy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, combine chicken thighs, mushrooms, onion, garlic, chicken broth, red wine (if using), thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Remove from heat and stir in any accumulated juices to create a rich mushroom gravy.
4. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with tender chicken thighs, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with garlic
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Sweet and Sour Crockpot Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, slow-cooked to tender perfection in your crockpot. A delicious and easy meal for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Place the chicken in the crockpot.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
4. Pour the sweet and sour mixture over the chicken.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Corn and Bacon
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a busy day: juicy chicken thighs, sweet corn, and crispy bacon all come together in a flavorful slow cooker dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Arrange the chicken thighs on top of the onion mixture.
3. Sprinkle the corn kernels, crumbled bacon, and paprika over the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Indulge in 20 mouthwatering crockpot chicken thighs recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic flavors like Honey Garlic and BBQ to international twists like Thai Peanut and Mediterranean, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a comforting meal, this collection of flavorful and satisfying recipes has got you covered.
