Easy and Flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs Recipe

Slow cooker chicken thighs are a simple yet delicious dish that can be prepared with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you, infusing the chicken thighs with a rich, savory flavor that is sure to impress. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this delightful dish, providing valuable insights and tips along the way.

Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs?

Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for slow cooking. They are more flavorful and juicier than chicken breasts, and they hold up well to long cooking times without becoming dry or tough. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is rich, hearty, and satisfying. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, or add vegetables or grains to make it a complete meal.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Here are the ingredients you will need for this recipe:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make your own slow cooker chicken thighs:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until the skin is browned, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then pour it over the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
4. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker, then turn the heat to high. Let the sauce cook until it thickens, about 15 minutes. Pour the sauce over the chicken before serving.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are often overlooked in favor of chicken breasts, but they have a lot to offer. Here are a few interesting facts about chicken thighs:

• Chicken thighs are richer in flavor than chicken breasts due to their higher fat content. This makes them ideal for slow cooking, as they stay moist and tender even after long cooking times.
• Chicken thighs are also more affordable than chicken breasts, making them a great choice for budget-conscious cooks.
• According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of roasted chicken thigh (without skin) provides about 170 calories, 22 grams of protein, and 9 grams of fat. It’s also a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chicken thighs are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. The slow cooker does all the work for you, resulting in tender, juicy chicken that is packed with flavor. Plus, this recipe is versatile and budget-friendly, making it a great choice for any occasion. So why not give it a try? You might just find that it’s your new go-to chicken recipe.