Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs (Totally Worth Waiting For!)
4. How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Recipes
5. Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
6. Crockpot Chicken Recipe FAQ
7. Slow Cooker Chicken Serving FAQ
8. Storage FAQ
9. JUMP TO RECIPE
10. More Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes You'll Love

Make this easy crock pot chicken recipe for a hearty dinner that’s ready in under four hours. It turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Everyone will love how tender the chicken gets with no extra work. Serve it at family dinners, potlucks, or game day parties for a tasty, crowd-pleasing meal!

What you'll need to make these chicken thighs in the slow cooker:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, about 3 pounds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon celery salt
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 chicken bouillon cube, crushed
• 1 cup water
• 2 bay leaves
• 24 ounces potatoes, (honey gold bite-sized) halved
• 12 ounces baby carrots, 1 bag
• chopped fresh parsley (optional), for serving

Get creative! This crockpot chicken recipe is so versatile and easy to customize. Try something new each time you make it!

⭐ Chicken: This recipe uses chicken thighs, but you can also use boneless or bone-in chicken breasts. Just adjust the cook time based on the size of the pieces.

⭐ Cheese: Want to make it cheesy? Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken a few minutes before it's done cooking.

⭐ Seasonings: Mix up the flavor by trying different spices! Use Italian seasoning, or add taco seasoning for a fun Mexican twist.

⭐ Creamy: For a rich, creamy version, stir in cream cheese during the last few minutes of cook time.

⭐ Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes taste great, but green beans work too. Add them near the end so they don’t get too soft.

Come hang out in the kitchen and follow our step-by-step photos, easy directions, and tasty tips to make slow cooker chicken.

This family favorite turns out super tender and full of flavor every time. Let’s jump in and get dinner started!

FIRST STEP: ​​In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Season both sides of the raw chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place skin side down in the skillet.

SECOND STEP: Let cook 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until browned on both sides. Remove chicken from the skillet.

THIRD STEP: To the skillet, add the butter and onion. Let cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onions are softened. Add the garlic, celery salt, and tomato paste then stir well. Add flour and stir again to combine. Let cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the flour.

FOURTH STEP: Turn down the heat to low and stir in the chicken bouillon, water, and bay leaves. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Remove the pan from the heat.

FIFTH STEP: Place the potatoes and carrots in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the onion mixture from the skillet and spread it out into an even layer over the vegetables. Place the chicken on top of everything else, skin side up.

SIXTH STEP: Cover and cook on high for 3 hours. Remove bay leaves and serve.

• Family dinners: This comforting, family friendly slow cooker chicken recipe makes the perfect weeknight dinner that kids and grown-ups both enjoy. Serve it with mashed potatoes and candied carrots for a full meal.
• Potlucks and parties: Bring this easy slow cooker chicken to potlucks, game days, or holiday parties. Pair it with million dollar mac and cheese and baked beans to keep everyone happy.
• Cold weather meals: This warm and hearty chicken hits the spot during fall and winter. Add cheesy funeral potatoes and creamed corn for the coziest comfort food combo.

Will the sauce thicken while the chicken cooks?
Yes, the sauce thickens a bit as the chicken cooks, but you can also remove the lid at the end to thicken it more.

Do I need to stir the crockpot chicken thighs while they cook?
No, you don’t need to stir the chicken while it cooks. Just let it simmer without lifting the lid.

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker for this recipe?
No, don’t use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Always thaw them first to keep the cooking even and safe.

Does the chicken need to be completely covered in liquid?
No, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully covered. The steam and juices will cook everything evenly in the slow cooker.

How do I know the chicken is cooked all the way through?
You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches 165°F and easily shreds with a fork. Always check before serving.

Can I serve slow cooker chicken straight from the crock?
Yes, serve the chicken right from the slow cooker to keep it warm and juicy during your meal.

Is this slow cooker chicken good for feeding a crowd?
Yes, this slow cooker chicken works great for groups. It’s easy to scoop and serve for parties or family dinners and children love it because it’s tender, mild, and easy to eat with noodles or rice. This chicken recipe travels well in the slow cooker and stays warm, which makes it perfect for potluck gatherings. Serve it at casual holiday meals for a stress-free option that still feels cozy and homemade.

Should I shred the chicken before serving?
It's not necessary, but shredding the chicken makes it easier to serve and helps soak up more of the flavorful sauce.

How long will slow cooker chicken thighs keep in the fridge?
Keep any leftover chicken in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days.

How long can I keep slow cooker chicken in the freezer?
Freeze this slow cooker chicken in an airtight container for up to three months.