Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Want to come home to a delicious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! Slow cooker chicken thighs are the answer. With just a few simple ingredients and some prep work ahead of time, you can have a mouthwatering dinner on the table in no time.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 easy and delicious slow cooker chicken thigh recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker enthusiast or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Moist and flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for a stress-free dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the honey garlic sauce over them.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs: Tender, flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a rich BBQ sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker coated with cooking spray.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and brown sugar. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
4. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, baste the chicken with the juices from the slow cooker.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Creamy Mushroom Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Creamy Mushroom Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe
A rich and savory slow cooker recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place the chicken thighs on top of the mushroom mixture in the slow cooker.
5. Pour in the cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Elevate your meal prep with this flavorful and effortless recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the warmth of herbs, and the tenderizing power of slow cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a stress-free Sunday roast.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, making sure they’re coated with the lemon mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, resulting in tender and juicy chicken thighs with a sticky teriyaki glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and toss to coat with the marinade.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
A comforting and effortless meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe yields tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and sweet carrots, all in one delicious slow cooker dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 8-9 hours or High for 4-5 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-9 hours
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in White Wine Sauce
This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The chicken thighs cook to perfection in a flavorful white wine sauce, making it an easy and impressive dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry or sweet)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides (about 5 minutes per side). Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized (about 10 minutes).
4. Add the garlic, white wine, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Place the browned chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the white wine sauce over the top.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Black Beans and Corn
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with the creamy richness of black beans, sweet corn, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the black beans, corn kernels, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs.
4. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs and Gravy
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple and satisfying slow cooker recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich gravy will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, and chicken thighs.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, olive oil, and dried thyme. Pour mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Coconut Curry Sauce
Elevate your meal prep game with this flavorful and aromatic slow cooker recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a rich coconut curry sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and curry powder.
2. In a slow cooker, combine coconut milk, ginger, cumin, and cilantro (if using).
3. Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Artichokes
Moist and flavorful chicken thighs are elevated by the creamy combination of spinach and artichokes, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, and chicken broth.
3. Place the chicken thighs on top of the spinach mixture.
4. Spread the softened cream cheese over the chicken thighs.
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 Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes
A delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with sweet potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite spices or herbs (e.g. paprika, thyme, rosemary)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and olive oil.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Tomato Basil Sauce
A flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines the tender chicken thighs with a rich tomato basil sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together crushed tomatoes, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, making sure they’re covered with the tomato sauce.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Peppers and Onions
Tender chicken thighs smothered in a flavorful mixture of sautéed peppers and onions, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. This easy recipe is perfect for a busy day or when you want a hearty meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite spices or herbs
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Place the cooked onion and pepper mixture at the bottom of a slow cooker.
3. Add the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and add minced garlic.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Green Beans and Almonds
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Green Beans and Almonds Recipe
Summary: This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and ease-of-preparation. Tender chicken thighs, crisp green beans, and crunchy almonds come together in this comforting slow cooker dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green beans
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add green beans and almonds on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Pour in chicken broth until all ingredients are covered.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Pineapple and Soy Sauce
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection with the help of slow cooker. The pineapple adds a pop of freshness, while the soy sauce gives it a rich and umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed pineapple
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, crushed pineapple, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and ginger.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Lentils and Tomatoes
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe that combines the richness of chicken thighs, nutritious lentils, and tangy tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken thighs, lentils, tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Cheese
This comforting recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a delicious, hands-off meal. Tender chicken thighs, steamed broccoli, and melted cheese come together in a flavorful and satisfying slow-cooked dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken and broccoli.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Apples and Sage
This hearty recipe combines tender chicken thighs with sweet apples and savory sage, all slow-cooked to perfection in a comforting blend of flavors. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety), peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a large bowl, mix chicken, onion, apples, olive oil, garlic, and sage.
3. Place the mixture in the slow cooker.
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 fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Quinoa and Vegetables
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken thighs with quinoa and a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine quinoa, mixed vegetables, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs on top of the vegetable mixture.
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, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinners! This article presents 20 mouth-watering slow cooker chicken thigh recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious. From classic flavors like BBQ and teriyaki to more adventurous options featuring honey garlic, coconut curry, and sweet potatoes, there’s something for everyone. These busy-friendly recipes require minimal prep time and can be cooked while you’re away, making them perfect for hectic weekdays. With these slow cooker chicken thigh recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice taste for convenience again!
