These slow cooker chicken thighs are packed with flavor and so easy to make! Just throw them in with some savory spices and let the slow cooker do its magic while you relax.
I love that they’re super tender and juicy after hours of cooking. Perfect for those busy days when you want a yummy dinner ready without any fuss! Plus, they make great leftovers too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs offer great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless skinless thighs or chicken breasts work, but they may not be as juicy. Just adjust cooking time so they don’t dry out.
Olive Oil: This is used for searing. You can replace it with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or if you’re looking for alternatives.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth. If you don’t have it, feel free to use sweet paprika or even chili powder for a kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is always best, but store-bought works too! You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter taste or water with a pinch of salt for a last-minute option.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin When Slow Cooking?
Searing chicken before slow cooking enhances flavors and helps create a crispy skin. This step is optional but recommended! Here’s how to do it properly:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, then add olive oil. Make sure it shimmers before adding the chicken.
- Place chicken skin-side down and let it cook undisturbed for 5 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- Flip and sear the other side for about 3 minutes. This browning adds a delicious crust!
After searing, place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour in broth carefully to maintain that crispy skin. Enjoy the juicy result!
Delicious Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
For Cooking:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for prep and cooking time in the slow cooker can vary. You’ll need about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Since the slow cooker does the work, you can relax and let the flavors develop beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by mixing the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub this delicious spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they are well coated for maximum flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
If you want extra flavor and texture, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the thighs and sear for another 3 minutes. Don’t worry if you skip this step; the slow cooker will still make the chicken tasty!
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Now, place the seared chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the sides of the chicken but avoid pouring it directly on top. This helps keep the skin nice and crispy!
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until it’s tender. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and perfect texture.
5. Garnish and Serve:
When the chicken is done cooking, carefully lift it out of the slow cooker. You can spoon some of the delicious cooking liquid over the chicken or serve it on the side. To add a fresh touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving!
Enjoy your flavorsome Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time. Boneless thighs usually take about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. Be sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)!
What if I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with another cooking oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or even butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Just use the same amount as called for in the recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions can enhance the flavor. Just chop them into similar sizes and place them in the slow cooker with the chicken. They may need an additional hour of cooking time on low to become tender.
