Few meals are as comforting, reliable, and flavorful as slow cooker chicken thighs. This recipe brings out the best in bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, rendering them perfectly tender with a rich, savory flavor that comes from a simple but aromatic blend of seasonings. The magic happens slowly, as the meat absorbs the garlicky, herbed broth over hours, making it fall-off-the-bone delicious by the time you’re ready to serve.

This dish is a great example of how you don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients or techniques to create something deeply satisfying. With minimal prep and a handful of pantry staples, you can let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Whether you’re planning for a busy weeknight dinner or want to meal prep for the week ahead, these slow-cooked chicken thighs are sure to become a regular in your rotation. They’re versatile enough to pair with many sides and sauces, and the optional cornstarch slurry allows you to finish with a thick, luscious gravy if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Juicy and Flavorful: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay moist and absorb all the seasonings.
Great for Meal Prep: Makes enough for several meals and reheats well.
Customizable Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to make a thick gravy or leave it brothy and light.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients and yields a hearty, satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Butter
Chicken stock or broth
Garlic, minced
Italian seasoning
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cornstarch and water (optional, for thickening)

Variations

Use Boneless Thighs

For quicker cooking or easier serving, boneless, skinless thighs work too—just reduce the cook time slightly.

Make It Creamy

Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a creamy twist.

Add Vegetables

Toss in carrots, potatoes, or green beans to make it a one-pot meal.

Spicy Version

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.

Try Different Seasonings

Swap Italian seasoning for herbs de Provence or a Cajun blend for different flavor profiles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2

In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook another 2 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Step 3

Add butter, chicken stock, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to the slow cooker.

Step 4

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 5

(Optional) To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the slow cooker. Cook on high for 10–15 more minutes until thickened.

Step 6

Serve hot with sauce spooned over the top.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Searing the chicken first adds deeper flavor and a nice texture.
Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
Use a fat separator or skim the fat off the top for a lighter sauce.
Let the sauce thicken uncovered at the end if using cornstarch slurry.
Check internal temperature—chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

How to Serve

Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, polenta, or egg noodles to soak up the savory sauce. Add a side of steamed greens, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless thighs?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster and may dry out if overcooked.

2. Do I have to sear the chicken first?

It’s optional, but searing enhances flavor and helps lock in moisture.

3. Can I cook it on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 3–4 hours instead of 6–7 on low.

4. Is the cornstarch slurry necessary?

No, it’s optional. Use it only if you want a thicker sauce or gravy.

5. What can I substitute for chicken stock?

Vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube works in a pinch.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming too soft?

Stick to the recommended cook times and avoid overcooking.

7. Can I add cream or cheese?

Yes, a splash of cream at the end or a sprinkle of parmesan adds richness.

8. What sides go best with this?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread pair wonderfully.

9. Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

It’s best to thaw first to ensure safe and even cooking.

10. How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. With just a few minutes of prep and the help of a slow cooker, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal that’s rich in flavor and incredibly tender. Whether you thicken the sauce for a luxurious gravy or keep it light and brothy, this dish is versatile, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. Keep this recipe in your rotation for stress-free dinners with guaranteed results.